The stakes could not be higher as double champions Real Madrid host leaders Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday in a duel that could determine the fate of this season's Spanish championship.
Barcelona hold a four-point cushion over Real going into El Clasico' so victory would virtually secure the title with just four games left, however, if Real win they would be just a point behind cranking up the pressure on Pep Guardiola's side.
"For Real it is their last chance but we don’t need to worry because whatever happens we will still be on top," said Barca striker Samuel Eto'o.
For Barcelona it is the second tough game inside five days having faced Chelsea on Tuesday in the Champions League semi-final first leg which finished 0-0.
A similar result would probably suit Guardiola fine but Real, who are well rested after no European commitments, will hope their rivals have heavy legs. "Real may be the favourites with home advantage but Barca are the league leaders," said Real goalie Iker Casillas.
It will be a contrast of different football style as the flair and panache of Barca come up against the robot-like efficiency of Real. Real have gone 18 league games unbeaten — with 17 wins and one draw — to get back in the title race and their last loss came in mid-December with a 2-0 reverse against Barcelona at Camp Nou. Barca had a 12-point gap over Real back then but now that is down to four points.
{{/usCountry}}It will be a contrast of different football style as the flair and panache of Barca come up against the robot-like efficiency of Real. Real have gone 18 league games unbeaten — with 17 wins and one draw — to get back in the title race and their last loss came in mid-December with a 2-0 reverse against Barcelona at Camp Nou. Barca had a 12-point gap over Real back then but now that is down to four points.
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