Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez has tagged Real Madrid favourites to win tonight’s Copa Del Rey semifinal first leg that will be played at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The match finds Madrid on a good run of five wins in as many matches in all competitions while Barcelona lost their last two matches; a 2-1 Europa League loss to Manchester United last week and a 1-0 league defeat to Almeria over the weekend.
It is this kind of form that Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez has heaped praise on his opponent saying Carlo Ancelotti’s charges are the favourites to win this match tonight. Whether this is a mind game tactic or not will be seen tonight when the two face-off.
“Madrid are favourites because they are La Liga and Champions League holders. They are a tough opponent and they are in good form.” Xavi who said he doesn’t mind being honest told the press.
It should be remembered that Barcelona beat Madrid 3-1 to win the Spanish Super Cup in January, but the Los Blancos were on a pleasant side of a 3-1 win in the duo’s first league meeting this season.
Real Madrid are still in contention to win the treble this season even though they find themselves seven points behind Barcelona who lead the table standings.
They showed their dominance against Liverpool in the Champions League last-16 first leg and would like to replicate the same tonight.
“We are approaching it full of confidence as it’s important to show the personality and courage to put in a complete performance both defensively and in attack.” Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said in the press conference on Monday.
This is the first time the Los Blancos have reached the Copa Del Rey semi-final since the 2018/19 season.
Team news
Barcelona will miss the services of marksman Robert Lewandowski who sustained a hamstring injury against Almeria over the weekend. Pedri and Ousmane Dembele will also watch this from the stands due to thigh injuries.
Real Madrid are without left-back Ferland Mendy, defender David Alaba and attacker Rodrygo who were injured during the astounding win against Liverpool last week but Luka Modric and Aurelien Tchouameni are available for selection tonight.
