David Villa on Barcelona: 'They need to win' El Clasico vs. Real Madrid
NEW YORK – With so many memorable matchups between Barcelona and Real Madrid taking place over the years, it can be hard to choose a favorite one. Former Barcelona and current NYCFC striker David Villa has no such problem.
“My first Clasico was amazing for me,” Villa said when asked his favorite edition of the big game between two of Spanish soccer’s heavyweights. “It was a dream, no? 5–0, I scored two goals. It is one of my favorite memories in soccer.”
Speaking to SI.com at the opening of Adidas’s new store in midtown Manhattan, Villa said that he thinks this weekend could bring us one of the most consequential Clasicos in recent memory.
Barcelona’s recent struggles, including last weekend’s 1–1 draw at Real Sociedad, have made the club the underdog despite playing at Camp Nou, and with Real Madrid’s lead over Barcelona at six points, the result could make a gigantic impact on the title race at a relatively early part of the season.
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“It’s always an amazing game. This year, most than ever, or more than the last year, it's different,” Villa said. “Barcelona has had a little bit of trouble. They need to win. I think Barcelona can do it, and I hope they win the game.”
Barcelona plays Real Madrid at Camp Nou at 10:15 a.m. ET, and it's televised on beIN Sports.