FC Barcelona vs Real Madrid: Three key individual battles on the pitch that will shape the outcome of the match

#3. Luka Modric versus Sergio Busquets

This pivotal battle in midfield will shape the outcome of the match

In the previous years, these matches were dominated by the team which won the battle in midfield. Both FC Barcelona and Real Madrid have one of the best midfield setups in the world and both the teams know the chances of dominating the match lie on how well their midfielders perform.

FIFA Best Player of the Year and Ballon d'Or winner, Luka Modric, would take charge of the Real Madrid midfield and will look to find spaces and holes in the Barcelona set up to exploit with his immaculate passing and vision. Poor performance from midfielders like Modric and Kroos were one of the reasons for Los Blancos' humiliation in the first half of the season but Modric will be motivated not to make the same mistake again.

It is crystal clear that Barcelona veteran defensive midfielder, Sergio Busquets, is one of the most intelligent players in the side. His interceptions, game reading and tackles will be vital in stopping Real Madrid midfielders from pulling the strings. There is no doubt that the player who will dominate this battle, will help his team dominate the match.