Most people would consider Barcelona as the favourites going into the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-finals. The Catalan giants have a 1-0 aggregate lead from the first leg. And on the other hand, they have the home advantage this time around as well. And on top of everything else, Real Madrid have lost three El Clasicos in a row.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side have a mountain to climb for sure. But then, they are a team who have shown the ability to turn ties around in the second leg on numerous occasions in the past.
A 1-0 deficit is not something that cannot be overturned. Especially if Real Madrid players showcase their best in the second leg. Thus, this tie is far from over.
In fact, it looks like Xavi still considers Real Madrid as the favourites, despite of Barcelona’s 1-0 aggregate lead and home advantage going into the second leg of the semi-final tie. As reported by 90min, the Spanish World Cup winner said:
"“I have the feeling that when it’s our turn to play two legs against Real Madrid, it’s very difficult. How long has it been since they lost a two-legged tie? That’s why I still think they’re favourites despite being 0-1. The pressure is on them.“They can beat you perfectly. They’re still favourites. They’re more used to these games and they’re used to coming back. For me they’re still the favourites.”"
Barcelona boss Xavi makes surprising Real Madrid claim
Of course, this could be a bit of mind games from Xavi as well. But all Real Madrid can do from here on is put their best foot forward and see where it takes them.
On current form, Barcelona are quite some distance away from them. The La Liga table tells you everything that you need to know, with Xavi’s side a comfortable twelve points ahead of Real Madrid.
Form often goes out of the window in El Clasicos though. And Real Madrid definitely have players who can make a difference. The 6-0 win over Real Valladolid at the weekend would have given them a lot of confidence. Karim Benzema got himself a first-half hattrick while several others put in standout performances as well. Hopefully, they will carry that form to Camp Nou.