Sunday at Camp Nou will see the next installment of El Clasico, the fiercest rivalry in Spanish soccer, when Barcelona hosts Real Madrid with nine points separating the two at the top of La Liga.
While Real have won their past two games and advanced to the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals at Liverpool's expense in midweek, Barcelona are on a three-game winning streak.
With Xavi's team leading Carlo Ancelotti's team 1-0 on aggregate in the Copa del Rey semifinals, this is the second of three rapid meetings between the two adversaries.
Barca: After missing six games due to a hamstring injury, Pedri is anticipated to make a comeback. Ousmane Dembele will remain out for the hosts.
After serving his suspension, Ronald Araujo is eligible to return to the lineup. Alejandro Balde may replace Jordi Alba at left back, and Gavi may join Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski up front.
Real: David Alaba is still sidelined with a hamstring injury, although the Austrian is most likely the only significant absence. While Karim Benzema's injury against Liverpool was not too serious, Ferland Mendy is back in the mix.
Real: Aurelien Tchouameni might take Toni Kroos' position, but Nacho should remain in the starting lineup and Federico Valverde should join Karim Benzema and Vinicius Junior up front.
Real are generally doing well enough to win important games, despite their recent struggles. They ought to be able to earn a point in this situation, which would satisfy Barcelona because it would maintain their lead. Pick: Real 1 vs. Barca 1.