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The fixture between the fierce Spanish rivals will now take place on April 21 at the Nou Camp, a day earlier than originally planned.

The latest El Clasico was moved to accommodate the teams' participation in this year's Champions League semi-finals.

Barcelona play Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on April 18, before hosting the return leg on April 24. Real Madrid, meanwhile, face Bayern Munich on April 17 and 25.

News of the rescheduled La Liga fixture was announced on Real Madrid's website. A statement said: 'Real Madrid will face Barcelona at the Nou Camp on Saturday, April 21 at 2000 in the 35th round of the season.'

Meanwhile, legendary former Portugal international footballer Luis Figo, who tasted glory on the field with both clubs, refused to say which team he thought would enjoy a better season in a recent interview.

Speaking to Lancenet, the current Inter Milan ambassador said: 'I still have a huge affection for all the clubs where I played. Barcelona and Real Madrid were two of the most important periods of my life. I feel privileged to have played for them. Real Madrid and Barcelona are extremely close to each other though. Madrid hold a lead in the league table, while Barca have reached the cup final. And they're both doing great in the Champions League.'

Figo's affinity for both clubs is understandable. He played for Barcelona between 1995 and 2000, before enjoying a five-year stint with Real Madrid.

Real Madrid's current team is not too shabby either, and under the guidance of manager Jose Mourinho and star player Cristiano Ronaldo, it could well clinch this year's domestic league title and the Champions League.

However, Barcelona remain favourites to win back-to-back European titles and Lionel Messi and company are hot on the heels of their fiercest rivals in the domestic league, having whittled Madrid's lead at the top of the table to just four points at the weekend.

Leo Stevens