Real Madrid versus Barcelona is a rivalry beyond the field of play. This classic matchup has its roots in a conflict of regional identity between the capital of Spain (Madrid) and Catalonia.
During the decades of the 1930s and '40s, Barcelona was principally a vehicle through which Catalans could express their opposition to the national government, especially during the 46-year dictatorship of Francisco Franco.
The dictator was a fan of Real Madrid for obvious political reasons. In 1953, when Franco found out Barcelona was going to sign the best player in the world, at that time the Argentinean Alfredo Di Stefano, he established a law that prevented the entrance of foreigners into the country unless they had a Real Madrid contract.
Di Stefano played his first season in Spain with Barcelona and had little success. But afterwards, according to his contract, he had to play in Madrid. There, the story was different, as Di Stefano won five European Cups and multiple league titles.
Another aspect that helped heat up the rivalry was the ideology behind their football approach. Barcelona opted for players from its youth academies, while Real Madrid, with a notable economic power (in large part due to Franco) bought the best players in the world.
Throughout the 20th century, the rivalry grew as both clubs continued to dispute the title. They have monopolized the Spanish league and the hatred between their fans stands out, even above the hatred between the actual clubs.
In the last five years, the differences have been emphasized due to the dominance by the Barcelona team in recent years. In the 2008-09 season, Barcelona had a record breaking six titles: Spanish League, Copa del Rey, the Spanish Super Cup, the Champions League and the Club World Cup.
This provoked Real Madrid into coming up with a response for the Catalan team. The team from the capital began massive signings like the Brazilian Kaka and the Portuguese striker Ronaldo: the most expensive transfer in football history.
These, among other factors, have helped to stir an athletic rivalry that this Saturday will add another chapter to its great history.
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