5 reasons why Barcelona has dominated El Clasico in recent times

#2 Star players stepping up

Barca's big stars have stepped up when needed in El Clasico

El Clasico is the biggest game and its when the biggest stars usually step up to make it happen. Over the last 5-7 seasons, it has been reduced to the Lionel Messi versus Cristiano Ronaldo show, a battle that added even more spice and attention to the world's greatest rivalry.

It has become clear in recent times that as the better-balanced team, FC Barcelona has had its star players stepping up when the occasion demanded it, unlike their Madrid counterparts.

Messi is the record goalscorer in Clasicos but it is instructive to note that across this season's four encounters, he has not scored a goal. Instead, the likes of Luis Suarez, Ivan Rakitic, Marc-Andre Ter Stegen have stepped up to deliver crucial goals/performances.

With the exit of Cristiano to Juventus, Real Madrid's star men have faded badly under the harsh lights of an El Clasico encounter. Sergio Ramos has been perhaps the best attacking weapon but sadly, has become a huge liability at the back as well.