When Real Madrid were drawn to face Barcelona in the semi finals of the Copa del Rey, most people considered Xavi’s side as the heavy favourites to go through into the final. They were in terrific form at that point of time where Los Blancos were struggling to find their rhythm. Not too long afterwards, and it feels like the situation has changed quite a bit.
Real Madrid have not been at the top of their game themselves. But their dominant 5-2 win over Liverpool at Anfield showed the quality that this side still possesses. On the other hand, Barcelona have won only one of their previous four games.
They have lost their last two as well. A defeat and UEFA Europa League elimination at the hands of Manchester United was followed by an unexpected defeat against Almeria, who are trying to avoid relegation this season.
Those results must have handed Real Madrid a major boost, heading into the first leg of their Copa del Rey semis. And at the same time, Barcelona have more worries than just their form.
Three Barcelona stars set to miss Copa del Rey semis first leg vs Real Madrid
Robert Lewandowski has picked up an injury recently and if rumours are accurate, he looks set to miss a couple of weeks of action. On the other hand, two more key players for Barcelona, Pedri and Ousmane Dembele are already out of action.
As a result, it looks like Barcelona will be without three of their most important players this season, when they take to the Santiago Bernabeu pitch to face Real Madrid.
Of course, Real Madrid have a long list of injury problems at the moment themselves and are nowhere near full-strength. Taking everything into consideration, it is hard to pick a favourite for this tie.