Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has insisted that Sunday's El Clásico against Barcelona remains unpredictable, despite the Catalan club's impressive start to the Spanish La Liga season.
Speaking after Real Madrid's 4-1 Champions League victory over RB Leipzig on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, the Belgian international acknowledged Barcelona's strong domestic form but maintained that previous performances would not necessarily determine the outcome of the rivalry.
“For me, Clásicos are always 50-50, even when one team comes into the match in better form than the other,” Courtois said.
Barcelona enter Sunday's encounter at the Spotify Camp Nou unbeaten in La Liga and six points ahead of third-placed Real Madrid after nine rounds of matches.
Courtois admitted that playing away from home would present additional difficulties but expressed confidence in Madrid's ability to secure a victory and reduce the gap in the league standings.
He explained that Madrid's recent performances, including their European victory over Leipzig, had strengthened the squad's confidence ahead of the encounter.
The goalkeeper also stressed the importance of defensive discipline, acknowledging that Madrid must improve their performances away from home to remain competitive in the title race.
“We need to close the gap with them, and this can only be achieved by winning,” he said.
Courtois also defended teammate Vinícius Júnior, whose recent performances have attracted criticism.
He argued that even the world's leading footballers experience difficult periods, citing Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi as examples of players who have faced criticism despite their achievements.
The Belgian expressed confidence that Vinícius would rediscover his best form with the support of his teammates and supporters.
Real Madrid head into the fixture following a run of improved results, while Barcelona will seek to maintain their unbeaten league record and extend their advantage over their rivals.
The match is scheduled for Sunday, October 25, at the Camp Nou, with both clubs seeking an important result in the early stages of the La Liga title race.
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