Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois believes Sunday’s El Clásico remains an open contest, arguing that the fierce rivalry makes it difficult to predict the winner before kick-off.
Ahead of the October 25 showdown at Spotify Camp Nou, the first league meeting between the Spanish giants in the 2026-27 season, the Belgian expressed confidence despite Barcelona’s impressive start and six-point lead at the top of La Liga.
According to Fabrizio Romano on X on Friday, Courtois said, “Barcelona the favorite in El Clásico? In the end, you never really know until you actually play the match,” Courtois said. “I think we’re in good shape and feeling confident… it’s 50-50, always.”
The Madrid shot-stopper praised Barcelona’s domestic performances but maintained that his team had the quality to secure victory.
“They’ve performed very well in La Liga, but I have faith in our team. I believe we can go there and win,” he added.
Courtois also acknowledged the difficulties of playing away from home while insisting that neither side should be considered certain to win.
“It’s true that it’s their home ground; playing away always makes for a different kind of match, but I trust our team. For me, even when one side might be in better form than the other, Clásicos are always 50-50.”
