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Suarez, Ronaldo set for El Clasico

Last Updated 18 December 2017, 18:48 IST

Barcelona striker Luis Suarez and Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo were heavily criticised during the opening phase of the season but the two forwards have hit their strides ahead of Saturday's Clasico showdown between the two heavyweight clubs.

Ronaldo rifled in the only goal against Brazilian side Gremio to help Madrid lift the Club World Cup on Saturday, while Luis Suarez struck twice as Barcelona thumped Deportivo La Coruna 4-0 on Sunday, stretching their lead at the top of the table.

When the bitter rivals meet at the Santiago Bernabeu, Barcelona will be looking to increase their 11 point lead on fourth-placed Madrid, who have played one match less.

Madrid's disappointing start to the league season was influenced by Ronaldo's poor form, although he has now turned a corner.

The Portuguese scored just one goal in his first eight league games, but has hit form at the right time, scoring eight goals in his last seven matches across all competitions.

"Cristiano is Cristiano and you must never doubt him," said defender Raphael Varane .

Ronaldo, who turns 33 in February, insisted he is responding to criticism with his performances and he is desperate to catch Barcelona at the top of the table.

"I hope we win that game so that the league is still alive for Real Madrid," said Ronaldo.

In contrast to Madrid, Barcelona are flying. Unbeaten in La Liga and the Champions League, the Catalans made light work of Deportivo in one of their best performances of the season.

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(Published 18 December 2017, 18:44 IST)

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