FOOTBALL
El Clásico: Barcelona aim to break Real Madrid's record start
Barcelona host Real Madrid in the 265th El Clásico, a fixture where the all-time lead is currently tied at 106 wins each. Hansi Flick’s side are seeking their 10th straight win to start the league season, which would eclipse Real Madrid’s record from 1968. The match is taking place amidst civil unrest in the city, with 128 arrests reported overnight for vandalism and looting. Police have designated the fixture as high-risk, increasing security. Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is absent due to flu, with Andriy Lunin set to start. The game is crucial for the title race, as Barcelona sit six points ahead of their rivals. Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé are expected to be the key performers in a fixture described as regaining its historic intensity. Barcelona have won six of the last seven meetings, while Real Madrid have suffered defeats to Atlético and Betis on the road. The outcome could widen Barcelona's lead to nine points, cementing their dominance in the early stages of the season.
The Transfer Siren · 25 October 2026
Barcelona host Real Madrid in the 265th El Clásico, a fixture where the all-time lead is currently tied at 106 wins each. Hansi Flick’s side are seeking their 10th straight win to start the league season, which would eclipse Real Madrid’s record from 1968. The match is taking place amidst civil unrest in the city, with 128 arrests reported overnight for vandalism and looting. Police have designated the fixture as high-risk, increasing security. Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is absent due to flu, with Andriy Lunin set to start. The game is crucial for the title race, as Barcelona sit six points ahead of their rivals. Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé are expected to be the key performers in a fixture described as regaining its historic intensity. Barcelona have won six of the last seven meetings, while Real Madrid have suffered defeats to Atlético and Betis on the road. The outcome could widen Barcelona's lead to nine points, cementing their dominance in the early stages of the season.
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