Previews
DOM 23.03.2014
The time has come. This Sunday, on the 29th matchday of the Liga BBVA, the entire world will be watching the spectacular clash between Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona, first and third in the table, at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
The Whites are aware that victory at home against their arch-rivals means much more than just three points. A good result could be the final step towards the title and the squad know who they have to be cautious with: "You have to be careful against Neymar and Leo Messi. We have to defend together and stay compact", said the Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti.
The Whites, with no absences aside from the injured Jesé Rodríguez and Sami Khedira, are approaching the last match of the Sunday in front of their home crowd as if it was a cup final.
The Spanish capital will welcome a Barcelona team who have not lost in Chamartín since 2008, when they had to form a guard of honour for the Whites. Since then, much has changed for the azulgranas, but the Gerardo Martino's charges will go to Madrid with the hunger needed to claim the three points that separate them from the league leaders.
Their manager confirmed as much: "If we lose, it will be very difficult to bridge seven points. Not because we’re not capable, but because of how little there is left of the championship". Unlike Carles Puyol, Gerard Piqué returns in time for the big event and is in the squad.
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