Tensions always seem to run high when these two meet, which will make for another entertainment installment of arguably the best soccer rivalry in the world. Late lineup news has impacted this one though, as Sergio Busquets has been moved out of the starting lineup due to injury. He's replaced by Ivan Rakitic.
Here's how you can watch the match and what to know:
How to watch
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 18 | Time: 2 p.m. ET
Location: Camp Nou -- Barcelona, Spain
TV: beIN Sports | Live stream: fuboTV (Try for free)
Odds: Barcelona -140; Real Madrid +330; O/U 3
Follow: CBS Sports App
Storylines
Barcelona: A tough 2-2 draw at Real Sociedad on Saturday took some energy out of them, but they are fortunate because they have a full day more of rest than Real does entering this game. Who knows if we will see them looking more lively or fresher, but that extra day will certainly help in regards to preparation. Barca and Real always play intense, physical games, and Barca is expected to keep its composure and win, and it should with a more dominant attack.
Real Madrid: They earned a 1-1 draw at Valencia with a last-second goal on Sunday from Karim Benzema to remain level, but they wasted a chance to win and enter this game in sole possession of first. Los Blancos have only lost one league game this season, but they will have to create better chances against Barca to take the win. Expect something big in attack from Rodrygo or a central defender coming up to score like Sergio Ramos to put Real within striking distance of a victory. Los Blancos are still without Eden Hazard who is recovering from an ankle injury.
Prediction
Barcelona snags a late victory with a dramatic free-kick goal from Lionel Messi.
