The Lions' Pride

It's Clasico time...

Don't get Gol TV.

Casillas made a good save on Messi early and Ronaldo missed a great opportunity himself. Both Ronaldo and Di Maria with tweaks too. 1-1...shaping up as usual.

Messi goes in on a poor tackle on Alonso while already carrying a yellow. Lio could've easily gotten sent off there...a tad lucky.

Victor Valdes pulled a move I would have done in Fifa unbelievable from him

There has been a lot of unnecessary flopping...but that's how Clasicos go.

Wow...that was unlucky for Real. Xavi strike deflects off Marcelo, off the post, and in. 2-1 Barca. Iker had it covered.

CESC!!!!! Alves w the cross...Cesc beats Contrao with a brilliant header. 3-1 Barca.

....Stoke are (is?) tough at home.

Stoke played really well today. Pressured Walker and Parker on the right flank and had success. If Chelsea can pull off the upset tomorrow, the table really tightens up.

Well...depends on the lineup. Luiz is suspended, which may actually help against City, but with Alex on the fritz, I'm not sure who replaces him in central defense. Do we move Ivanovic inside and risk Bosingwa getting abused on the right flank? Do we start a disgruntled Alex who hasn't practiced with the first squad in a month and will be transferred in a few weeks? Also, do we go Mikel or Romeu? That back 5 is going to be crucial, and the lineup will determine a lot. I think we stick with Ramires, Lamps, Mata, Drogba, Sturridge up front. With Drogba in good form and Lamps rested, I think we can score. But as has been the case all season, it will depend on the back five.

If we go Bos, Ivanovic, Terry, Cole, Romeu (most likely lineup IMO); we have a chance. Bos is the big concern, but Romeu sitting deep could help neutralize Silva/Aguero.

Honestly, I don't know. I thought we were on our death bed, and then Drogba revived himself in the past 2 matches. City is obviously the better team on paper, but maybe there is some remaining voodoo in Drog's boot to spare.

Even tougher when the ref is on the Stoke payroll. That was pretty pathetic refereeing!! Stoke are tough at home though, they took their chances when they got them. We still have a game in hand and are in third on the table, life is still pleasant.