SuperSport viewers on DStv and GOtv can look forward to La Liga‘s most notable rivalry, as Barcelona welcome Real Madrid to the Camp Nou on the evening of Sunday 19 March 2023 for the latest edition of ‘El Clasico’.
DStv and GOtv is the only true home of football in Africa, offering a range and depth of action that no other rival can match – it’s literally ‘Unbeatable Football’! If you’re going to spend your money on something, it may as well be on the best football in the world.
The Blaugrana have made it their mission to reclaim the Spanish title from Los Blancos and this clash could go a long way in securing that aim… or be a springboard for the team from the capital city to bring themselves right back into contention.
“The importance of this game is well known,” said Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez. “The importance is in terms of history, rivalry and the league table. It will not be decisive for the title either way, but both teams will be pushing to secure a win.”
Real manager Carlo Ancelotti, meanwhile, says that Vinicius Junior – who has suffered some disgusting racial abuse in recent weeks – should be celebrated by all football fans: “Vini is managing really well, he is focused on the game and loves to play football and this doesn’t affect on the pitch.
“At the moment it is wonderful to be watching Vinicius as every football fan likes his quality. They like to see Pedri, Gavi, (Kylian) Mbappe, (Erling) Haaland. Vinicius is up there with these players and we can enjoy quality players like that.”
Key players
Pedri – Barcelona’s young midfield maestro is on course to become one of the best players in the world, and he is already a fundamental part of the Blaugrana set up despite being just 20 years of age. He will look to shine in this ‘El Clasico’ and bring Barca a victory.
Vinicius Junior – The Brazilian wide attacker is a key source of creativity and penetration for Real Madrid. His dribbling, speed and improving ability to link with the likes of Karim Benzema has given Los Blancos a new dimension in the past year.
Head-to-head stats
In head-to-head stats, Barcelona and Real have met in 251 matches across all competitions since 1902. Los Blancos have claimed 101 wins compared to 98 for the Blaugrana, while 52 games have been drawn.
When the teams met in La Liga earlier this season, at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu in October 2022, Real claimed a 3-1 home win thanks to goals from Karim Benzema, Federico Valverde and Rodrygo.
Battles to watch
Xavi Hernandez v Carlo Ancelotti – The more experienced Ancelotti got the better of Xavi when these teams last met, but the Barca boss will bank on home advantage and a dynamic midfield to give his team the edge this time around.
Federico Valverde v Frenkie de Jong – The powerful Uruguayan is set for a fascinating battle against the elegant and composed De Jong. The players have very different styles, but each is incredibly effective in the midfield.
Robert Lewandowski v Eder Militao – The Polish striker has been Barcelona’s attacking spearhead throughout the season, but has yet to really fire in a ‘big’ game. Militao will look to ensure that this remains the case.
No rival can compete with SuperSport’s coverage. Our viewers on DStv and GOtv enjoy an unrivalled selection of football from around the world!
Don’t miss the best football action on SuperSport on DStv and GOtv. Visit www.dstv.com and www.gotvafrica.com to subscribe or upgrade, and join in on the excitement. And while you’re on the move, you can stream matches on the DStv App.
La Liga broadcast details
All times CAT
Sunday 19 March
22:00: Barcelona v Real Madrid – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga, SuperSport Maximo 3 and SuperSport GOtv La Liga
