5 things you probably didnt know about El Clasico

On Sunday night, millions of lives from around the world will come to a standstill as their eyes will be glued to their television sets in the anticipation of one of the most popular and intense club football matches. There is plenty at stake as the two sides meet, with the winner getting the chance to go on top of the table and probably put one hand on the league trophy already.Barcelona are in great form recently and will be threatening on all fronts while Real Madrid will be hoping for a win in such a big game to bring back their good run of form. In addition to the rivalry, there will be a showcase of individual talent and individual battles to watch out for and so hopefully the El Clasico will turn out to be another treat for our eyes.In the build-up to the match, here are five facts you probably didn’t know about the El Clasico:

#1 Origin of a full-fledged criminal organization

Ultras is a group of fans notorious for their fanatical support which even goes to the point of violence and hateful chants & slogans.

During the 1980s, when the image of both clubs were getting affected due to the intense rivalry, the matter was worsened by the formation of Ultras group for both clubs. The Ultra Sur was formed as Real Madrid’s Ultras group and the infamous Boixos Nois was formed as Barcelona’s Ultras group. But some of the most violent faction of the Catalan supporters, The Casuals, became a full-fledged criminal organization.

It has been reported that the Casuals have been found involving in narcotics business as well as illegal arms dealing and they procure their products by stealing from Moroccan and Colombian dealers. In 2009, a Bulgarian named Hristo Vasilev was shot dead in Barcelona for allegedly stealing drugs from the extreme wing of the Boixos Nois.