The first El Clasico matchup between Real Madrid and Barcelona is set to be a thrilling encounter, with ESPN unveiling special programming for this highly anticipated event. The game holds significant implications for the La Liga title race and marks Kylian Mbappe's debut against Barcelona in Real Madrid's iconic white kit.
ESPN has planned an extensive coverage strategy for Saturday’s game, introducing an ESPN+ MegaCast that offers five different viewing options to fans in the United States. This includes traditional English-language coverage on ESPN+, Spanish-language broadcast on ESPN Deportes, and live reaction shows in both languages.
Viewing Options:
- English language Broadcast: Commentary by Ian Darke and Steve McManaman
- Spanish language Broadcast: Commentary by Fernando Palomo and Eduardo Biscayart
- English language Watchalong: Analysis by Dan Thomas, Alejandro Moreno, and Craig Burley
- Spanish language Watchalong: Analysis by Mauricio Pedroza, Herculez Gomez, Alex Pareja, and Carolina de las Salas
- Aerial Camera View: Offers a unique perspective of formations and player movements
In addition to these viewing options during the match itself, there will be over two hours of pregame and postgame coverage available in both English (on ESPN2) and Spanish (on ESPN Deportes).
Heightened programming reflects anticipation
The comprehensive coverage reflects the importance of this El Clasico match. Both teams have had strong starts to their seasons; Barcelona has won nine out of ten games under Hansi Flick while Carlo Ancelotti's Real Madrid remains unbeaten in La Liga standings despite three draws leaving them three points behind their rivals.
Fans can expect a goal fest as both teams boast some of LaLiga’s top scorers. Robert Lewandowski has already netted 12 goals, while Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappe, and Raphinha have all scored at least five. The pregame coverage will feature a host of former players who have represented Barcelona and Real Madrid. Icons such as Iker Casillas, Luis Garcia, Jurgen Klinsmann, Patrick Kluivert, Rafa Marquez, Hugo Sanchez and Mario Suarez will be part of the pregame show.
Fans can tune in to the game at 3 p.m. ET on ESPN+ for the English language broadcast or ESPN Deportes for Spanish commentary. With this extensive coverage plan from ESPN for El Clasico's first match of the season, sports fans are set to enjoy an immersive viewing experience like never before.
