El Clasico Preview:Key Battles

There's more to El Clasico than just a game of football. It is a match comprised of multiple battles between the Castellano and Catalan culture. Tempers run high and passion dominates the field of play. This encounter will be no different, as each player will have a counter-part on the pitch, which is destined to produce a marvel of footballing showdowns.

Samuel Eto'o vs Fabio Cannavaro
Arguably the best striker in the world comes against one of the best defenders of modern day football. This games means more to Eto'o than a mere three points; it's pulling one over his former club.Cannavaro has strict instructions to stay back and use his vast experience to stop Eto'o from finding the net - doing whatever it takes.

Xavi Hernandez vs Fernando Gago
Gago is out to prove that he is more than just "The New Redondo". His job will be to close down Xavi and stop him from creating any chances and dictating the midfield. Impossible? Think again, as Gago completely overshadowed the Spanish mastermind the last time these two sides met. A lot has changed since then though, and this one could turn out to be very interesting...
Iker Casillas vs Leo Messi
The clash of the titans, without a word of doubt. Messi is likely to crack through Madrid's defence, and the only man standing in his way will be Iker Casillas. The Madrid goalkeeper has the harder job this time; he'll be jumping from corner to corner and rushing forward in an attempt to keep his net squeaky clean. The winner of this showdown could very well be the winner of the game.

Gonzalo Higuain vs Rafael Marquez
Rafa Marquez has to do everything to stop "Pipita". Higuain's pace can be devastating when he's on the break, and his low, powerful drives are rarely off target. Marquez will have the upper-hand in the air, but will be given a throbbing headache by Higuain when the ball is on the ground.

Guti vs Yaya Toure
The towering defensive midfielder is a monster when he wants to be. Guti can be a handful to deal with though, as his through balls are very tricky to anticipate. Toure has already won the physical battle, but the tactical victory is up for grabs.

Sergio Ramos vs Barca Fans
98,000 vs 1. The die-hard Barca fans, known as the cules, have always had an unexplained hatred toward the young Madrid stopper. Last year, they booed him whenever he had the ball and gave him an absolute nightmare when he surged forward. It will be hard for Ramos, who has the already lost the battle in terms of numbers. Still, if Ramos manages to at least find the net, he'll be the one taking the spoils home; regardless of what the end result turns out to be.

Feras Saad, Goal.com