Real Madrid were handed an unexpected boost in the La Liga title race this weekend. After dropping points against Atletico Madrid, the mood amongst the fans was low. But then, the club were given a lifeline, as Barcelona suffered a 1-0 defeat away at Almeria. The result meant that the gap is now cut to seven points.
While that is still a significant gap, it does give Real Madrid some much needed hope that they can mount a comeback in this title race. On the other hand, Barcelona are suddenly struggling for form.
Xavi’s side have drawn one and lost two of their last four games. Before the defeat to Almeria, they were also knocked out of the UEFA Europa League, after losing to Manchester United. Thus, things are not going as smoothly for them as was the case just a few weeks back.
And this might very well be the perfect time for Real Madrid to welcome Barcelona to the Santiago Bernabeu, for the first leg of the Copa del Rey semis. Xavi’s team have been dealt another blow before that important match as well.
Barcelona suffer Robert Lewandowski blow before facing Real Madrid
As reported by Barcelona’s official website, Lewandowski has strained the biceps femoris in his left hamstring. The striker will be unavailable until the problem clears up.
As reported by 90min, it is not clear when he might return, but the early expectation is that Lewandowski won’t play in Thursday’s El Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu.
It goes without saying that that is a major blow for Barcelona, especially before a game of this magnitude. Real Madrid won by a 3-1 scoreline, the last time these two sides met at the Santiago Bernabeu. And they should be heading into this game with a lot of confidence as well, considering events of the last few weeks.