Real Madrid have had the upper hand over their rivals in recent games having won three of the last five encounters against the Catalans. On Saturday they will be looking to record yet another win.

Madrid have been in blistering form recently and following their mauling of Liverpool at Anfield on Wednesday, Los Blancos will now be looking for a big win at the expense of their bitter rivals.

Here are five things Madrid must do to earn all three points against Barcelona.

Play defensive full backs

Real Madrid have always been blessed with explosive full backs who can cause quite a menace in the opposition half. Whereas their attacking ventures are commendable, the same cannot be said of their defensive capabilities.

On Saturday both Marcelo and Carvajal who are expected to start as left back and right back respectively must ensure that they protect their own flanks. The possibility of Luis Suarez starting the match is also a big worry for Ancelotti and his men, therefore it is important for Madrid to be well organized in defence if they are to get anything out of the match.

Three man midfield

Real Madrid will be against one of the best midfield setups in the world of football and it is important that they respond to a three man midfield by fielding three of their best in the middle of the park.

Barcelona are known to dictate most of their play from the middle and that is where Ancelotti must place his men in order to prevent them from doing so. It is important that the Madrid players put forth a tireless display and limit the spaces available to the opposition. If Madrid can successfully do that they can potentially disrupt Barcelona's game and restrict them in enjoying much success.

Play Khedira

The German world cup winner is poised to sign for a new club when the transfer window opens in January but Real Madrid must ensure they use the player to their benefit as far as he is in their roster. Even though the 27 year old has fallen down in the pecking order he could make a real difference if played on Saturday.

He is arguably the strongest defensive minded midfielder in the side and it is for that reason that his inclusion in the starting line-up on Saturday is vital. His compatriot Toni Kroos for all his talents does not have the work ethic of a midfielder and is often found napping on the half way line when his team is in need of defensive reinforcements. Khedira on the other hand is never afraid of doing the dirty work in the middle of the park and could prove to be useful if given a chance on Saturday.

Counter attacking football

Real Madrid and Carlo Ancelotti must stick to what they are best at which is counter attacking football. Real Madrid are lethal when they hit their opponents on the break and this is something they could use to get the better of Barcelona.

Even though the Castilians will be without the electric Gareth Bale, they are capable of counter attacking with amazing pace and can cause a lot of problems in the opposition half.

Help out Cristiano Ronaldo

The Portuguese captain has been untouchable so far and has scored a total of 15 goals in just seven La Liga games. That said, the mercurial forward cannot do it all himself and will need to share the scoring burden with his teammates.

Barcelona are well aware of Ronaldo's talents and will have a strategy in mind to contain him. Thus it is important that the likes of James Rodriguez, Isco and Benzema step up on the occasion.

Even though it is too early in the season a victory over their fierce rivals could give Madrid the confidence which can help them in winning the league this season. Los Blancos trail the Catalans by four points and it is imperative they cut down the difference this Saturday.