El Classico Decider

The Spanish Classico is always eagerly awaited (especially by GOLTV, which dedicates three hours of pre-game coverage), nevertheless, tomorrow's game is possibly the most anticipated classico in recent years. Only eight games away from the season's conclusion, Barcelona trails Real by a whopping one goal difference. Perhaps more importantly to the neutral fan, Ronaldo and Messi will duel once again, both at the top of their form, and both hoping to maintain the kind of rhythm that will allow them to etch their name into world cup folklore just sixty-two days from tomorrow.

Although Real are the current La Liga leaders, few will argue that Barcelona is playing the more effective football, and has only recently hit it's stride, leaving a trail of carnage wherever they play. Messi alone has tallied an amazing fifteen goals in six games. Tuesday's humiliation of Arsenal was the most recent reminder of the Pulga's present form. Andres Iniesta's return is also a big boost to the team, especially since Ibrahimovic has been ruled out with a pulled leg muscle.

While not playing at the same level as Barcelona, Real has good reason to be confident about tomorrow's game. Apart from succumbing to Lyon in the Champion's League, the Royal Whites have been cruising in the league, and the team is showing signs that it can be a well oiled machine under the tutelage of Pellegrini. Ironically, as the team is progressing, so have the rumors of Pellegrini's dismissal and subsequent replacement by a more demonstrative manager. Jose Mourinho and Rafa Benitez have both been linked with the position, and neither of them has been reticent about the desire to move to greener ($) pastures.

Barcelona's Champions League success could also be an added benefit to Real. While clearly jealous of their rival's European accomplishments, and quietly praying that Puyol won't be lifting the Champion's trophy for a second successive season at the Bernabeu, Real is well aware that Barcelona's fatiguing schedule may be a determining factor in the former's success.

Of course, one mustn't overlook the Ronaldo factor. The Portuguese wonder boy's arrogance could also play a role in the game's outcome. With all the recent praise Messi has been lavished with, little attention has been placed on the former FIFA player of the year. One can be sure that Ronaldo will fight to the death - and throw a few tantrums - in order to get the spotlight firmly place on him, and to put him back into player of the year contention.

All things considered, tomorrow's game is, in theory, one for the ages. And if previous clashes between these two titans are of any indication, this classico will live up to the bill. From a neutral's perspective, picking a winner is a daunting task, but few would bet against the Blaugranas. My money is on Barcelona since there's nothing else Guardiola and co. would rather do than beat real in their stadium, just a few weeks before they further rub salt into Los Blancos' wounds by lifting the Champions League trophy.