El Clásico is the name given to matches between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, and it is regularly among the most-watched club fixtures on the planet. It is more than a football match, because it reflects a rivalry of culture, identity and sporting ambition.
Two cities, two identities
Real Madrid represents the capital, while Barcelona is closely linked with Catalan identity, and its slogan describes it as more than a club. That background gives the fixture much of its emotional weight.
Two grounds, two atmospheres
Games are played at the Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid and at Barcelona’s home stadium, Camp Nou, and each stadium has hosted countless memorable matches.
Stars on both sides
Over the decades the fixture has featured many of football’s biggest names, including Alfredo Di Stéfano, Johan Cruyff, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Their duels helped to make the match a global event.