Next weekend the super clasico will take place in Spain. Both Madrid and Barcelona will give it their all in order to lead the Spanish La Liga as currently, Madrid is in top place by only one point. The main problem for both teams has been injuries. Barcelona has Messi injured, and is doubtful this weekend. They also have to play a decisive match in the Champions League this week and will be forced to play hard and use a lot of stamina on their main lineup. Madrid on the other hand has Cristiano Ronaldo coming back from an injury, but he has been out for a very long time and is not considered to be back on top form. The good news for Barca is that it will be held on home ground. Barcelona is expected to win this one and reclaim the first spot in the competition. Major figures like Kaka have stated that Barcelona plays better, but that Madrid is in a better position for the game given injuries etc… He also states that bookmakers should not give favoritism to the home team because of Messi´s injury and Madrid´s form. Kaka states that it takes time in order for the new team to play well, but that they are slowly getting there and the players want to showcase positive form in terms of players quality on the pitch and a winning attitude in general. Bookmakers give Barcelona a nice edge here. Nice betting odds overall.
The Spanish League is going to force foreign players a much heftier tax than before given the outrageous fees granted to them. It will rise from 24% to 43%.
A German newspaper publishes more than 200 matches that were supposedly fixed this year. Most are from Germany and Austria, but also matches from the Champion´s League and Europa league are displayed on the paper, making this one of the most widely renowned scandals ever.