As Real Madrid heads into this Saturday’s El Clasico against Barcelona, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Carlo Ancelotti’s squad is just one game away from equalling the longest unbeaten streak in La Liga history—a record currently held by their fierce rivals, Barcelona, who set the benchmark of 43 games unbeaten between 2017 and 2018. With Real Madrid unbeaten for 42 games, a win or draw on Saturday would see them make history in front of their arch-nemesis.
Since their last defeat—a 3-1 loss to Atletico Madrid over a year ago—Real has racked up 31 wins and 11 draws, securing last season’s La Liga title by a comfortable 10-point margin and lifting the Champions League trophy with a final win over Borussia Dortmund. Key players like Federico Valverde and Vinicius Junior have been instrumental in Real’s unbeaten run.
Valverde, often an unsung hero, has appeared in all but one of the matches, while Vinicius has led the scoring tally with 19 goals. Jude Bellingham, the England international, follows closely with 14 goals, showcasing the attacking depth of the current Real Madrid squad.
Comparing this streak with Barcelona’s 2017-2018 run highlights some differences. Offensively, Barcelona’s side, led by Lionel Messi, recorded more wins and points, with Messi directly involved in 58 goals during their unbeaten streak. Real’s current tally is slightly lower, with Vinicius and Bellingham combining for 48 goal involvements. However, Real’s defense has been more robust, with 23 clean sheets and fewer goals conceded than Barcelona’s streak. Ancelotti’s continuity as manager further strengthens Real’s position, contrasting with Barcelona’s managerial shift during their run.
This El Clasico is not only a clash between two historic teams but also a potential turning point in La Liga’s record books. Real Madrid has defeated Barcelona in their last three meetings, twice in the league and once in the Spanish Supercopa final. If they emerge unscathed on Saturday, they will not only equal Barcelona’s record but could also set their sights on Bayern Munich’s European record of 53 unbeaten games set in 2014.
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