Rival watch: Real Madrid superstar ruled out of Barcelona clash in last-minute blow

Real Madrid's goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has been unable to play in Barcelona’s upcoming El Clasico match due to illness, leaving the team without their first-choice keeper for the crucial game. The Belgian international's withdrawal has presented an opening for Barcelona to take advantage of the situation and further extend their lead over Real Madrid.

Real Madrid will now be relying on young Ukrainian goalkeeper Illia Voloshyn as the substitute, with Andriy Lunin being the most likely candidate to replace Courtois in the lineup. This development comes just hours before the match, adding to Madrid's challenges as they are already missing Vinicius Junior, who is serving a suspension.

Barcelona, on the other hand, will look to capitalize on Courtois' absence and test the Ukraine international, particularly Raphinha, who will start as the striker and apply pressure through his pressing.