A rejuvenating Real Madrid side failed to take advantage of Barcelona's slip against Sociedad on Sunday night, as a resilient Valencia side gave the former European champions run for their money. Los Blancos who had the Chance of topping the league table after their league rivals got tripped by Sociedad on Saturday, only managed to leave Mestalla with a 1-1 draw, thanks to a late strike by Benzema. The French forward has hit top form since this campaign and have consistently proved to be Madrid's executioner up front. However, his lone goal against Valencia was only enough to hand them a point. It was his 12th goal of the season in the league, same as Lionel Messi, though the Frenchman have enjoyed more appearances than the Barcelona captain. Having said that, I think Karen Benzema is one of the hottest strikers in Europe currently, alongside the likes of Lewandoski, Mane etc. The draw against Valencia leaves Zinedene Zidane's Madrid at second spot on the log with 35 points to their name. Barcelona are also on same points but merely topping the league on goal difference. Mestella have never been an easy place for Madrid to thrive, and Zidane will be a bit relieved to have escaped with a point in that encounter.
What Next, Winner Of El Clasico Takes It All?
On Wednesday, it's gonna be going down at the Camp Nou, as league champions Barcelona will play host to their arch rivals Madrid. Lots of media buzz and tension ahead of the encounter which is long overdue. With both teams having 35 points ahead of the duel, there is swirling sentiment that whoever emerges victorious in the El Clasico will go all the way to the league title, or better still, stands a better chance of clinging the Trophy. However, many are of the view that the match is far from being a league decider and that it's still too early to even talk about that, considering how tight the league table is.
Any Favorite?
Scrolling through various sports inclined social platforms, there are ongoing debates as to who is the favorite ahead of Wednesday's clash. Real Madrid fans are not mincing words in their resolve that they are the underdog, especially considering the fact that it's at the Camp Nou and Eden Hazard will also be missing out due to an Injury he sustained against PSG in their Champions league second leg group match. The Belgium captain is no doubt a major man in the Madrid squad and would have caused more problems for Barcelona if he was present. However, Some Barcelona fans are saying there are no favorites ahead of El Clasico. In other words, both teams are currently having same points in the league, and Dembele who would have caused Madrid's defensive line some few headaches will also be missing out due to Injury. What do you think, do you see Barcelona as favorites?
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