In a candid assessment ahead of the Spanish Cup semi-final clash, Barcelona coach Xavi expressed a clear view on how Real Madrid is positioned as the favorite to win the upcoming tie. The comment, contemporary and widely shared on social networks, highlighted the Catalan manager’s respect for Los Blancos while underscoring his team’s readiness to challenge them. Xavi underscored that Real Madrid remains the team to beat, noting their status as defending champions on both the domestic and European stage. He did not shy away from acknowledging Madrid’s momentum, yet he also pointed to the tactical tools and depth Barca can deploy to complicate the Madrid setup. The message was balanced: admiration for the opponents paired with a confident belief that his side could trouble them when the games matter most.
The semi-final first leg is scheduled to take place on March 2, with Real Madrid hosting Barcelona at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu. The venue, steeped in history and atmosphere, will witness a high-stakes matchup that fans in both countries have been anticipating. Kick-off is planned for 23:00 Moscow time, adding another layer of logistical interest for viewers across Europe and beyond. The meeting represents not just a domestic trophy contest but a stage for strategic chess between two of Europe’s most storied clubs, each bringing its own recent experiences and championship pedigree to the pitch. The date and location are set, but the tactical dynamics and player availability will inevitably shape how the fifty-fifty encounter unfolds on the night.
Earlier in the season, there was a notable development for Barcelona as star forward Robert Lewandowski will miss his first semi-final match against Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey. This absence adds to the strategic considerations for Barcelona, challenging their attacking setup and forcing adjustments in how they balance creativity with efficiency in the final third. The squad’s depth will be tested, but it also offers an opportunity for other players to step up and deliver decisive moments in a high-pressure environment. The club will likely lean on its collective strength, resilience, and tactical flexibility to offset the loss of a key scorer and still pursue advancement to the final rounds of the competition.