The first of two El Clasico matches is today as Barcelona hosts Real Madrid at the Camp Nou with the match tied 1-1 after the first leg.
After Real Madrid scored late to get a draw in the first leg, it's time for the second leg of this Copa del Rey semifinal at the Camp Nou in Barcelona. There is intense pressure on both clubs to win but for different reasons.
Madrid and Cristiano Ronaldo have all but conceded the league to Barca and winning the cup and the Champions League are clear priorities for the team and its fans. Getting past their rivals in today's match will be the first step in the process and despite Barca's recent struggles, it will still be a massive challenge as Madrid haven't won at Barcelona since 2007.
Barcelona's pressure comes from their recent poor performances. An embarrassing 2-0 loss against AC MIlan combined with two lackluster league performances have everyone questioning the team's form and their morale could use a boost with a defeat of Madrid. Even Lionel Messi has spoken this week about the importance of his team getting past their recent results and being ready for this important match.
Jose Mourinho will have nearly a full roster available with Xabi Alonso, Karim Benzema and Raphael Varane all returning from injury. In addition Sergio Ramos, Fábio Coentrao and Ángel Di Maria, all of whom were suspended in the first leg, are available.
Both teams are surprisingly healthy and suspension free for this big match. Barca's only issue is defender Adriano who has resumed training but is likely not match fit with yet as he recovers from a hamstring issue. Iker Casillas continues to recover from a broken hand for Madrid.
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