Image Credit: REUTERS/Albert Gea (Real Madrid vs Barca)

Real Madrid and Barca clash horns once again. They meet in the Copa del Rey semi finals on Thursday. This will be the first meeting out of three within a month’s time. Additionally, Real may be more motivated to win this match and trophy to gain a psychological advantage over their title challengers who are going through a bad moment. While a victory in El Clasico can be exactly what Xavi’s men need to reignite their form. Here is our combined 11 based on both sets of players and their form, availability and general quality shown throughout this campaign.

Formation and Defense

Formation- 4-3-3

Defense- Ter Stegen, Kounde, Araujo, Militao, Balde

Ter Stegen has been one of the best keepers in Europe this season. Winning Barcelona multiple games. Courtois hasn’t been terrible but he has yet to reach the heights of last season. Whether it’s because of injuries or simply a few silly mistakes.

Kounde’s competition at right back is Carvajal and Lucas Vasquez. The latter hasn’t played much and Carvajal hasn’t been as good as Jules Kounde since the start of the season.

Araujo and Militao as the center-back pairing is a given. They have been two of the best defenders in Europe this season and have shown their class every time they step onto the pitch.

The youngster Alejandro Balde is our left back. His place isn’t cemented in Barca’s starting lineup as Jordi Alba still plays regularly. He has been by far the best left back. He’s still very young so consistency will come with maturity. But no one can deny the talent and ability that this kid possesses. 

Midfield Trio

Pedri, Tchouameni, Kroos

In my opinion, Tchouameni has been better than Sergio Busquets this season. He has already shown his talent and ability to perform on the big stage.

Toni Kroos’ place in the team is secure and nothing much needs to be said about Pedri. An exceptionally talented footballer who has the world at his feet.

Attack

Dembele, Lewandowski, Vini Jr

Lewandowski gets the edge over Benzema due to his availability. Whenever Benzema has been fit, he’s been good. However he has had too many injuries. This takes nothing away from Lewa’s time at Barca as he’s evidently been a success for the La Liga leaders. 

Image Credit: Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno

Dembele and Vini Jr are our wingers and few people will disagree with that decision. 

Image Credit: chosen11.com

This was our El Clasico combined 11 and we look forward to witnessing Real Madrid vs Barca battle once again both in the cup and in the league. 

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