Real Madrid fans experienced a painful night in El Clasico as they watched their team fall 4-0 to Barcelona. The defeat not only underscored a fierce rivalry loss but also widened the gap between Real Madrid and Barcelona to six points, a situation sure to add pressure as the season unfolds.
This match unfolded much like their recent clash with Borussia Dortmund, showing a contrast between the two halves. However, while the Dortmund match saw Real Madrid improve in the second half, this time it was the opposite.
Real Madrid started the first half strongly and had several promising moments, even managing to find the back of the net twice, only for both goals to be disallowed for offside. Despite a solid start, the team headed into the locker room level with Barcelona.
The second half took a drastic turn. Robert Lewandowski’s opener for Barcelona unleashed a surge of energy for the Catalans, who quickly capitalized on the momentum. The floodgates opened, and Real Madrid found themselves on the receiving end of four goals by the game’s end.
Real Madrid’s backline, led by Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger, faced significant pressure. However, they can’t be blamed too heavily, as the team’s aggressive push for an equalizer left open spaces that Barcelona’s sharp attack exploited efficiently.
Beyond the immediate loss, this Clasico might have longer-term consequences for Real Madrid. According to Diario AS, Antonio Rudiger, one of Real Madrid’s key defenders, developed muscle problems late in the game. While injuries are not uncommon in intense matches like these,
Rudiger’s situation raises concern due to his lack of rest this season. He has accumulated a high number of minutes—1,267, only second to teammate Federico Valverde’s 1,302—and has consistently been on the field since the season’s start.
Rudiger’s potential absence would add to the existing defensive challenges for Real Madrid. With Dani Carvajal, David Alaba, and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois already sidelined, Real Madrid’s defensive lineup is becoming increasingly vulnerable.
Rudiger is scheduled to undergo further tests to determine the severity of his injury, but if his condition proves serious, Real Madrid could face an even tougher uphill battle in their pursuit of the La Liga title.
As Real Madrid faces upcoming matches, how they adapt to their weakened defense will be crucial. Rudiger’s availability remains uncertain, and the club will be eagerly waiting on updates regarding his condition.
This loss to Barcelona is more than a setback in points; it is a wake-up call that their current form needs adjusting, especially if they aim to reclaim the top position in La Liga.
