Could we be set for the ultimate El Classico?

Whatever you're doing this weekend my advice is to make sure you've got the time to tune in to 'El Classico' on Saturday. Barcelona and Real Madrid games are always high-tempo affairs full of passion and Saturday's game will be no different, and could indeed be one of the most exciting encounters between these two Spanish giants for some years.

With five games to go Barcelona's lead has been cut to just four points and should Real emerge victorious at the weekend they will have closed the gap to a single point – so there is a lot riding on this encounter. Real have been on a fantastic run, they've won 17 of their last 18 games and will go into this full of confidence.

Barca have a Champions League semi-final to prepare for but should still throw everything into this game. They've been rocked by Rafael Marquez's season ending injury which is a massive blow for the Catalans as he has been outstanding all season.

Not only does this game have a lot riding on it but there will be some of the world's best talent on display. In Lionel Messi Barca have one of the world's most exciting and skilful players but it is in midfield where Barca really shine. Andres Iniesta is, for me, the best midfielder in the world. He can score and create (he assisted three goals against Sevilla) as well as having excellent vision and passing ability. His partners in midfield Yaya Toure and Xavi are also top-quality and when those three are on song there is little the opposition can do to break down Barca's lightning attacks.

Real Madrid may not be the team they once were but there is still plenty of quality in their side. For Real Madrid their key players will perhaps be Gonzalo Higuain and Raul, the two strikers. Raul has been at the top of his game for well over a decade now. Higuain is the perfect heir to Raul's throne and has flourished alongside the Bernabeu favourite this season, it will be an interesting battle between the Madrid attack and a Barca defence minus Marquez.

Real have home advantage and the crowd will be well behind their team. In a way this is perfect preparation for Barca who face a daunting trip to Chelsea next Wednesday. I'm anticipating a high-tempo game with plenty of attacking football and hopefully plenty of goals. Both Iker Casillas in the Real goal and Victor Valdes between the posts for Barca are decent keepers and both are capable of pulling off a wonder save. I won't risk making a football prediction concerning the winner, Real need the win more but Barca know if they take all three points the title will be all but theirs. One thing is for sure though – the game will provide a great spectacle and should not be missed!

Source: ScoresPro.com