FC Barcelona and Real Madrid Set to Battle in Fifth El Clasico of the Season
The second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final match between arch rivals FC Barcelona and Real Madrid is set to take place on April 5th, 2018 at Camp Nou. With both teams having won three out of the four El Clasico encounters this season, it is expected that this match will be a cracker – full of end-to-end, entertaining and breathtaking football action.
Tight Security Measures and Ticketing Restrictions Implemented to Ensure Safety
As with all high-risk fixtures, Barcelona has taken extensive measures to ensure the safety of its players, officials, and spectators. There will be strict security checks at all access points to the stadium. Fans are advised to arrive early and use public transportation to avoid congestion and access their seat staggered fashion. Only ticketholders with appropriate identification will be able to enter the stadium. Any fan displaying Real Madrid symbols will not be allowed entry.
To prevent ticket resale or misuse of season tickets, the team has implemented a new policy that requires a loaned season ticket holder to present their ID at the entrance along with their loaned ticket counterpart.
Season ticket holders who are not attending the game can fill in an online form to free their seat for a third party named on the season ticket. This way, empty seats can be filled by those who want to attend but couldn’t get hold of a ticket in time.
Exciting Pregame Activities Planned Outside Camp Nou
To keep fans entertained before kick-off, FC Barcelona has organised several exciting pregame activities outside Camp Nou. Fans can enjoy performances from popular pop groups, have their picture taken in front of Photocalls featuring the Club badge or pose with a giant Força Barça sign. A DJ will also be present in the Barça Store.
Real Madrid Hoping to Overturn Deficit on Enemy Territory
Barcelona enters this match with a 10 advantage from the first leg, with goalscorer Ousmane Dembele and Lionel Messi having led their team to victory. Barcelona is currently enjoying a commanding lead in the league standings, thanks in part to summer additions Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha who have propelled them into the coveted top spot.
On the other side, Real Madrid aims to put on a resounding and statement display for fans. The team needs to overturn their first-leg deficit in enemy territory. Striker Karim Benzema is catching fire at the right time, having scored a hat trick in his last match.
Real Madrid’s Younger Team Takes Centre Stage
Despite their situation this season, Real Madrid has been making efforts to transition to a younger team. Luka Modric is set to extend his contract for another season, but players such as Aurelien Tchouameni have already stepped up in place of Casemiro.
The upcoming El Clasico match is an excellent chance for young players such as Vinicius Jr., Eduardo Camavinga, Rodrygo, Fede Valverde, and Aurelien Tchouameni to show their potential during the Copa Del Rey semi-final match.
Potential Outcomes Out of the Upcoming El Clasico Match
If Real Madrid loses this upcoming match against Barcelona, it could further ignite discussions around how they can close the gap between themselves and their rivals. Memories of what a player has done for the club can be short-lived if results do not come quickly.
Despite playing away from home at Camp Nou, Real Madrid could still dominate possession since Frenkie de Jong is an injury doubt for Barcelona.
Ultimately, the outcome of this El Clasico match will be about more than just one game. It could change peoples’ perceptions of Real Madrid’s situation and set the stage for a new era at the club.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
