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Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti says his team must beat Barcelona to win both the Copa del Rey and La Liga. With the season nearing its end, every match against their big rivals is important.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Before two key games, Ancelotti said, “If we want to win both Copa del Rey and La Liga we have to win against Barcelona, this is clear. No doubts.” Real Madrid are getting ready for the Copa del Rey final against a Barcelona team that has already beaten them twice this season. The stakes are high, as Barcelona lead La Liga, with Real Madrid four points behind after a late win over Athletic Bilbao at the weekend. Ancelotti might change tactics, maybe keeping the 4-4-2 formation that worked against Athletic Club, as he looks to get the balance right for these big games.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
This season hasn’t been easy for Real Madrid. They were knocked out of the Champions League by Arsenal in the quarter-finals, so they’re now focused on winning at home. Ancelotti’s job has been in doubt since they lost in Europe, but he has promised to stay with the club and fight on. The Copa del Rey final and a big La Liga game with Barcelona are Real Madrid’s last chances to win trophies this season. Barcelona, having beaten Madrid twice already, are set on staying first and going after a double themselves.
WHAT COMES NEXT?
Real Madrid’s next challenge is a La Liga match against Getafe. They need to win to stay close to the league leaders, Barcelona. The Copa del Rey final is expected to be a tough match, with both teams knowing that the winner could have an advantage before important La Liga games. Barcelona lead the league, with Madrid four points behind and Athletic Bilbao in third. With little room for mistakes, every game could determine the winners of both titles as the season finishes.
