El Clasico: 3 ways Real Madrid can beat Messi-less Barcelona at Camp Nou

#2 Narrow defensive line to intercept Barcelona's through balls and central penetration

Ramos will have to lead the tight four-man defensive unit of Madrid

Challenge

Barcelona has an ever-lasting love story with passing and penetrative style of football. Despite having multiple coaches post the Guardiola era, their love for passing never waned. They have pass masters like Sergio Busquets, Ivan Rakitic and Arthur who can split defenses.

Barcelona will be looking for incessant forward passes to try to penetrate the defense line centrally. They are always reluctant to adopt the style of crossing from the wings. Both Coutinho and Rafinha prefers to drift inside.

Strategy to adopt

The best way to counter the winger's inward movement is to have a tight back-line. Real Madrid must be cautious in letting both their right-back and left-back wander in the opposition half.

A narrow back-four will help Real in stopping the through-balls and forward passes by Barcelona. Barcelona will be forced to take shots from outside. Again, with a tight defensive unit Real Madrid can thwart any attacking danger from outside the box.

With Messi absent, it will be easier for the current Champions League winners to stop Barcelona from scoring goals.