23 October 2026 9:13 am WAT
Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has insisted that El Clásico remains an unpredictable contest, dismissing suggestions that Barcelona are clear favourites ahead of Sunday’s encounter.
Speaking ahead of the October 25 clash at the Spotify Camp Nou, the Belgian said the outcome of the fierce rivalry cannot be determined until the final whistle.
The encounter will be the first league meeting between the Spanish giants in the 2026/27 season.
Barcelona currently sit six points clear at the top of La Liga following an impressive start to the campaign.
However, Courtois remains confident that the league leaders’ form does not guarantee victory over their arch-rivals.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano on X on Friday, the shot stopper was quoted as saying, “Barcelona the favorite in El Clásico? In the end, you never really know until you actually play the match,” Courtois said. “I think we’re in good shape and feeling confident… it’s 50-50, always.”
The Real Madrid No. 1 acknowledged Barcelona’s impressive league form but underlined his belief in his own side’s quality. “They’ve performed very well in La Liga, but I have faith in our team. I believe we can go there and win,” he added.
Courtois also noted the challenge of playing away from home while remaining optimistic.
“It’s true that it’s their home ground; playing away always makes for a different kind of match, but I trust our team. For me, even when one side might be in better form than the other, Clásicos are always 50-50.”
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