Real Madrid faces a significant dilemma ahead of the upcoming El Clasico against Barcelona, as the latter holds a commanding nine-point lead in La Liga. With only seven matches left in the season, Real Madrid's chances of reclaiming the title appear slim. If Barcelona secures the championship before the match, Madrid may have to perform a guard of honour, a tradition last observed in 1988. This situation is compounded by Real Madrid's recent struggles, including a disappointing draw against Girona. The guard of honour has historically been contentious; in 2018, then-coach Zinedine Zidane refused to acknowledge Barcelona's title win with a similar gesture, citing a lack of reciprocity from Barcelona after Madrid's Club World Cup victory. Now, with mounting pressure and injuries, Real Madrid's potential walk onto the Camp Nou pitch could symbolize a painful acknowledgment of their rivals' success.