Barça and Real Madrid meet each other at the ‘Super Copa’ tonight, and it’s always a big game. But for Dani Alves, ‘El Clasico’ clashes are always fun – As Real Madrid is his favorite opponent.
The Brazilian legend is back wearing the Barça shirt, and he’s here to bring his winner mentality with him. At 38 years old, he’s past his prime. But the first two matches of Dani showed that he still has a lot to give for the Blaugrana.
And there isn’t a better occasion for him to show that he’s still part of the elite level of this game. And considering how well he used to play in ‘El Clasico’ matches- we’re in for a treat.
Stats Don’t Lie
The ‘Nightmare’ of Real Madrid, Dani Alves, is not only the player that won the most titles ever (46). He’s also the player who faced Real Madrid the most times (45), and the player that beat our arch rivals the most times (22).
In November 9, 2003, Dani Alves scored his first goal vs Real Madrid. Some Barcelona youngsters like Gavi and Ilias wasn’t even born. Back then he was the 20 years old GEM of Sevilla. 18 years later, Dani Alves is facing Real Madrid as a legend of this game that tries to prove that he’s still part of this level.
Bottom Line
It’s fair to say that FC Barcelona are the clear underdogs vs Real Madrid tonight. But ‘El Clasico’ matches always have their own rules. And if Barça wants to win the match, they will need Dani Alves to do well.
I’m guessing Alves won’t directly mark Vinicius tonight. It will make sense to use Araujo against the Brazilian winger. But I’m counting on Alves to do well tonight, on defense and also helping the attack.
