Real Madrid host Barcelona in the first Clasico of the Spanish league season tonight with the edge in the title race, but fearful of Barca coach Pep Guardiola’s enviable record at the Bernabeu.

It is now three years since Real last won the league and while they carry a three-point lead over their Catalan rivals with a game in hand, they know that the Clasicos can play a key role in the title race.

While Barca have stuttered away from home this season, Real have been relentless and will be now looking for their 16th consecutive victory in all competitions, while in the league they have scored 49 goals in 14 games.

Barca midfielder Xavi has tried to play down the game’s importance, however, by claiming that it will not be decisive in who wins the title.

“Madrid look the most dangerous than they have been over the last three or four years but nothing will be definite after the game,” he said.

“These matches are not directly related to the final positioning in the table but it would be an important step for us if we could beat them.

“I would like it to be an open game, where you see the potential of the two sides. Last season I was critical of Madrid but I think maybe this time, based on how the Super Cup went, that they will try to take us on and pressure us in attack.”

Fixtures

Primera Liga

Today
Levante vs Sevilla - 18.00
R. Betis vs Valencia - 20.00
R. Madrid vs Barcelona - 22.00

Tomorrow – 16.00
A. Bilbao vs R. Santander - 19.45
Espanyol vs A. Madrid - 21.30
Getafe vs Granada
Malaga vs Osasuna
R. Vallecano vs S. Gijon - 12.00
Villarreal vs R. Sociedad
R. Zaragoza vs Mallorca

Leading standings: R. Madrid 37; Barcelona 34; Valencia 30; Levante 26; Sevilla 24; Malaga 23; Osasuna 21; A. Madrid 19.