The Barcelona and Real Madrid rivalry has always been a reason to rejoice and celebrate for soccer fans around the world. Spectators are now guaranteed at least two more major Clasicos before the end of the 2013-14 season. Barcelona's Gerard Pique recently stated that he was excited about the prospect of playing Real Madrid with the Copa del Rey on the line.
"The most important thing is that we've qualified, it will be a very good match. There's a rivalry between the two teams, and finals are meant to be won," he stated, according to Goal.com.
The match is all the more exciting because it features two teams that are tighter than they have been in recent years. Barcelona has been the better squad for the better part of the last decade, but their recent regression and Madrid's improved play will make this a lot closer than it has been in the past.
The two sides are slated to meet in April and a great deal could take place between now and then. Barcelona has a tough Champions League round of 16 date against Manchester City while Real Madrid will have to exorcise its demons in Germany by playing Schalke 04. Barcelona's chances are still questionable while many expect Real Madrid to defeat Schalke, regardless of the result in Germany.
The teams have one more season meeting and could also face off in the Champions League semifinal if they manage to get that far.
Who has the upper hand in the Copa del Rey final?
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