Sports Correspondent

The Spanish Football Federation’s decision to appoint Cesar Soto Grado as the referee for Sunday’s El Clasico between Real Madrid and Barcelona has sparked discussion and intrigue ahead of this high-stakes La Liga showdown.

Set to kick off at 9:00 PM CET (3:00 PM ET) at the Santiago Bernabeu, this match carries immense weight as it could potentially determine the league title.

Soto Grado’s selection marks a significant milestone in his career as it will be his first time officiating the historic rivalry between these Spanish giants.

The magnitude of the fixture, often defined by intense competition and heated emotions, presents a formidable challenge for any referee, let alone one with limited experience in such a pivotal role.

The timing of Soto Grado’s appointment has raised eyebrows, given the pressure and stakes associated with this clash.

Real Madrid, currently leading La Liga by eight points over Barcelona, will look to solidify their position at the top.

With a 2-1-0 record in matches officiated for Los Blancos this season, Soto Grado’s past encounters with the team have yielded positive results for the Madrid side.

On the other hand, Barcelona enters this fixture on the back of a disappointing Champions League exit at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain.

The defeat has left the Catalan club reeling, and they now face the daunting task of closing the gap in the league race.

With only seven games remaining after El Clasico, Barcelona’s approach to this match will be strategic and aggressive as they seek a crucial victory to keep their championship hopes alive.

The spotlight will undoubtedly be on Soto Grado as he navigates the intensity and scrutiny of his first El Clasico.

His decisions on the pitch could sway the outcome of a match that holds immense significance for both clubs and their passionate fanbases.

As fans eagerly anticipate this clash of titans, the appointment of Cesar Soto Grado adds an element of unpredictability and potential controversy to an already electrifying encounter.

Will the inexperienced referee rise to the occasion, or will his baptism by fire become a focal point in the drama of El Clasico? Only time will tell as Sunday approaches, bringing with it the promise of thrilling football and unforgettable moments.