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Osasuna can put one spot between them and La Liga's relegation zone when Real Zaragoza come to town on Saturday.
Pamplona-based side Osasuna have made a move up the table in the past month, earning eight points in five matches and have not lost at home in three games, earning a scoreless draw against Real Madrid followed by victories over fellow strugglers Deportivo La Coruna and Celta de Vigo.
Osasuna held on to 17th position last week with a 1-1 draw away to 19th-placed Mallorca but they could move up to 16th if they defeat the incumbents of that spot, Real Zaragoza, on Saturday.
Defensive midfielder Lolo has been crucial to Osasuna's recent run, scoring the opener against Mallorca, while setting up the winning goals against Deportivo La Coruna and Celta de Vigo.
While Osasuna and Real Zaragoza tussle based around the threat of relegation should be the match to watch on Saturday, sixth-placed Rayo Vallecano's trip across the Spanish capital to take on Real Madrid will be the premier game on Sunday.
Vallecano continuing presence towards the top end of La Liga's standings has been one of the stories of the season.
Paco Jemez's men pulled off a 2-1 win over another local rival, Atletico Madrid, last week, but having lost four of their past six away fixtures, the cash-strapped club could struggle at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The relegation battle in La Liga threatens to be much more interesting than the title race as seven clubs from 14th-placed Athletic Bilbao to bottom club Deportivo La Coruna are split by just 10 points.
La Coruna, who have lost four on the trot, will get the weekend's action underway with a trip to Sevilla on Friday.
In other matches with importance in regards to potential relegation, Athletic Bilbao travel to Malaga, 15th-placed Granada host Barcelona and Celta de Vigo head to Getafe on Saturday, while Valencia will host Mallorca on Sunday.
League-leaders Barcelona should be confident of at least maintaining their margin over Atletico Madrid, although Granada did defeat Real Madrid 1-0 two weeks ago.
If Granada pull off another shock win, however, Atletico Madrid can draw within nine points of the top of the table if they triumph away to Real Valladolid on Sunday.
In other games, Real Sociedad will welcome Levante to San Sebastian and Espanyol will take on Real Betis.
Gary Medel scored twice as Sevilla's hopes of a European berth rose on the back of a 3-1 La Liga win over Deportivo La Coruna.
Croatia midfielder Ivan Raktic headed hosts Sevilla into the lead after just five minutes at Sanchez Pizjuan stadium on Friday.
Medel extended the advantage on 27 minutes when he diverted a cross from Jesus Navas past Daniel Aranzubia Aguado in the Deportivo goal.
But the Galician visitors pegged a goal back just five minutes later through Spanish striker Riki's eighth goal of the season.
Chilean midfielder Medel popped up again in the 40th minute to restore his side's two-goal buffer, and the hosts had goalkeeper Beto to thank for making a couple of great saves in the second half to keep the three points safe.
The victory was Unai Emery's side's third from five games and takes them to 10th spot on 32 points, five short of a Europa League qualification place.
Deportivo, who reached the Champions League semi-finals in 2004 but have since fallen from grace amid financial troubles, stay rooted to the bottom of the table on 16 points following a fifth consecutive league defeat.
They are six points from safety and face a huge task to salvage their top-flight status after earning promotion to La Liga this season.
La Liga wrap: Messi does it again as Malaga impress
17 February 2013
Lionel Messi scored his 300th and 301st goals for Barcelona in a 2-1 win over Granada, while Malaga also won in La Liga action on Saturday.
The Argentine's match-winning double also extended his scoring streak to 14 consecutive games, but it was far from an easy outing against Granada, who deservedly opened the scoring through Ighalo to end the first half with the lead.
But Barca would hit back in a dominant second half, as Messi turned home a rebound five minutes after the restart, before clinching the win with a free-kick in the 73rd minute to provisionally extend the his side's lead at the top of the table to 15 points over second-placed Atletico Madrid.
With one eye firmly on the midweek trip to Italy, Jordi Roura opted to rest Andres Iniesta, Carles Puyol and Jordi Alba, with Alexis Sanchez, Javier Mascherano and Adriano stepping into the side.
Granada certainly were not fazed by the reputation of their opponents, and threatened themselves when Nolito forced Victor Valdes to save low after getting to the end of Ighalo’s testing cross.
And with 26 minutes on the clock, the pair would combine once again to open the scoring. Nolito this time played the role of provider, taking advantage of Barca’s hesitancy to clear a cross by squaring for Ighalo, who stroked home from yards out.
The Catalans, despite dominating the ball, were struggling to break down the opposition defence, but Adriano went close to an instant response when his swerving shot from the corner of the box flew just off target.
However, five minutes into the second half, Barcelona were right back into the match. Cesc Fabregas’ shot caught the defence, and Tono by surprise, and the ball was parried back into the path of Messi, who slotted home his milestone goal.
The winner would come with 17 minutes to go, and it was no surprise to see Messi at the fore again, the Argentine this time converting straight from a free-kick 25 yards from goal.
Meanwhile, Malaga maintained their grip on fourth place in the league with a 1-0 triumph at home against Athletic Bilbao.
Javier Saviola's first half strike was enough for Malaga, who moved five points clear of Valencia in fifth with the triumph.
In other matches on Saturday, Getafe beat Celta Vigo 3-1, while Osasuna beat Real Zaragoza 1-0 in a vital clash between two clubs battling to stay in the top division.
Ten-man Real Madrid stayed within touch of city rivals Atletico after a 2-0 win over Rayo Vallecano in La Liga on Sunday.
A thrashing was on the cards for the visitors as Real raced ahead with goals from Alvaro Morata and Sergio Ramos inside 12 minutes.
But Ramos was shown a red card in the 18th minute after accumulating two yellow cards within a minute.
Although Rayo controlled possession for the remainder of the game, a toothless display in front of goal made it easy for Jose Mourinho's team to close out the win.
Earlier, Atletico recorded a 3-0 away win against Real Vallodolid.
The prolific Radamel Falcao scored his 19th goal of the season 10 minutes before the rejuvenated Diego Costa doubled the advantage in the 53rd minute.
Substitute Cristian Rodriguez rounded out the victory on 90 minutes as Atletico kept alive their slim chances of catching runaway leaders Barcelona.
Two second-half goals helped Valencia to a 2-0 home result against struggling Mallorca.
Ricardo Costa's goal on 60 minutes and Roberto Soldado's sealer nine minutes from time kept Valencia in fifth position as they attempt to move into the Champions League qualification positions.
Mallorca's loss leaves them with one win from their last 19 games, with only Deportivo La Coruna below them in the standings.
In Sunday's other matches, Real Sociedad drew 1-1 with Levante while Espanyol recorded a 1-0 home win against Real Betis.
Adriano would welcome 'great' De Gea at Barcelona
The shot-stopper's display against Real Madrid caught the 28-year-old's eye and the full-back hints he would be happy to see him replace Victor Valdes
Xavi still a doubt for Milan clash, says Roura
The influential playmaker has been sidelined with a torn hamstring since the 1-1 draw with Valencia and is not part of the squad to face Granada on Saturday
Simeone: We will continue to take risks
The Europa League holders are on the brink of elimination after the Argentine coach's late gamble, but the Los Rojiblancos man insists that will not put him off in the future
Pellegrini rejected Roma two weeks ago, says agent
The capital club are in the market for a new coach following the dismissal of Zdenek Zeman, but the Chilean trainer has elected to stay at Malaga
Xavi: Barca embrace Champions League favourites tag
The playmaker has welcomed the tough challenges ahead as they prepare to tackle AC Milan in the last 16 and Real Madrid in the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final
Fabregas: I hope Bojan returns to Barcelona
The Blaugrana midfielder believes the former Camp Nou starlet, who is currently on loan at AC Milan from Roma, has matured enough to shine back at his old club
Iraola admits importance of Real Sociedad clash The 30-year-old has acknowledged the importance of securing a victory over local rivals Real Sociedad on Friday
Barcelona players are humble, says Mascherano The Argentine midfielder believes that the Catalan side's history helps to ensure the team's current crop of players remain grounded
Morata: I understand Mourinho's substitution decision The 20-year-old focused on the positives after the Blancos boss withdrew him in Saturday's victory following Sergio Ramos' red card
Celta Vigo replace Herrera with Resino O Celtina have waved goodbye to last season's promotion-winning coach to replace him with former Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Abel Resino
Barcelona without Villa for Milan match The Spain striker declares himself unfit to face the Rossoneri in the Champions League tie, after suffering from kidney stones
Malaga are strong as a group, says Pereira The Portistas' boss feels that Manuel Pellegrini's men's main strength is their work together as a collective, but also remarked their top individual quality
I would let Malaga cash in on me - Isco The Spain international has admitted that he would consider a move to a bigger club it helped los Boquerones' with their precarious financial situation
'I have been trying to lure Neymar to Barcelona for ages' - Dani Alves The Brazilian attacker has long been linked with a move to Camp Nou, and his compatriot has been attempting to convince him to make the switch
Kaka: I'd like to play more at Madrid The Brazilian has been on the fringes over the last two seasons at Santiago Bernabeu, though he started in the win over Rayo Vallecano on Sunday
Iniesta reveals favourite Madrid player The Blaugrana star says he hopes to improve with every season, and admitted working without Tito Vilanova - who is recovering from cancer treatment - can be difficult
Referees don't surprise Madrid, says Karanka The Blancos assistant coach has claimed that the officials were wrong to send off Sergio Ramos during the 2-0 win over Rayo on Sunday, but said he had seen it all before
Sergio Ramos: It's easy to send me off The Real Madrid defender was dismissed during his side's 2-0 win over Rayo on Saturday, and suggested his reputation may have preceded him
Bielsa: It's been a negative season for Athletic Bilbao Los Leones boss has conceded that the club has endured a torrid six months and offered little in the way of consolation for fans after his team's 12th league defeat
Bale: Ronaldo more complete footballer than Messi The Tottenham attacker believes the Portugese is a better all-round player than the Argentine magician, as the race for the Premier League's most sought-after man hots up
Dani Alves: Messi makes things easier The Blaugrana full-back has underlined the importance of the forward, adding that having the Argentina international in the side gives him a sense of "tranquility" on the pitch
Diego Lopez: Every minute I play for Real Madrid is a gift from heaven The Blancos goalkeeper is relishing his second stint at the Santiago Bernabeu, and is hoping to help them overcome Manchester United in the Champions League
Vilanova recovery going well, says Zubizarreta The Barcelona sporting director says the coach is in high spirits and has put on weight since going to New York City to receive treatment for cancer
Roura: Messi is extraordinary The stand-in Barcelona trainer lauded yet another masterclass from the Argentine forward, who scored his 300th goal for the club, and pledged his support to Alexis Sanchez
Alonso: Liverpool must be patient with Rodgers' project The Spain international, who spent four years with the Anfield outfit between 2005 and 2009, believes the 40-year-old coach should be given more time at the helm
Chelsea enquired about Malaga boss Pellegrini - agent The Blues are interested in the Chilean coach, late of Real Madrid and Villarreal, who has taken los Boquerones to the round of 16 in their debut season in the Champions League
Valverde yet to receive Valencia contract offer The coach's current deal at the Mestalla expires at the end of the season, but there has been no advance on him potentially extending his stay
Wenger wanted to sign Varane The Arsenal manager says they were looking into the possibility of buying the French defender before he moved to Real Madrid
Forlan targeted by Zaragoza in January, says Jimenez The Liga club's head coach says he wanted to purchase the Internacional striker in the transfer window, but his salary was a stumbling block
Wenger coy on David Villa interest The Arsenal manager has admitted he likes the player but insists he is not concentrating on brokering a summer deal
Seedorf: Don't compare Neymar to Messi & Ronaldo The Netherlands veteran feels there is too much pressure placed on the Brazil starlet, though he is confident he could "put on a show" if he moves to Europe
Footballers are unaffected by crisis in Spain - Falcao
By Chris Kvesa
Feb 18, 2013 4:10:00 PM
The Colombia international has reflected on the bad economic situation of the country, and believes that players are left untouched by such problems
Atletico Madrid striker Radamel Falcao believes that footballer "live in a bubble" when it comes to the problems many people face in Spain.
The country has been hit hard by the economic crisis sweeping across Europe in recent years, but the Colombian has acknowledged that players have it easy.
"Clearly the economic situation in the country is not easy," the 27-year-old told El Mundo.
"A footballer always lives in a bubble, because when such things come along they are not affected by the crisis, but I do know how things are because otherwise I would not be living in this world.
"I have the privilege of having a job and that, today, is something that I value greatly."
The former Porto star went on to say that the game has become less about sport and more about making money in recent years.
"For many, football has become a business, to others a radical consideration or position to divide people. This exceeds what the game is, it used to be something much more fraternal."
The Colombian also revealed that he has been learning to speak English, but not because he has been plotting a move to the Premier League.
"English? I am learning. I have many years ahead of me, so I hope the next time I go on holiday, I have the chance to use it."
Casillas one month away from Real Madrid return
The Spain international's recovery schedule is running smoothly and he could be fit again by the middle of March
Ramos: My style has never been doubted
The Spain international has brushed off failing to mark Danny Welbeck in the draw with Manchester United
Chelsea & Manchester City to go head-to-head in pursuit of Falcao & Cavani
The Premier League giants meet at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, with battle lines already being drawn ahead of a summer spending war over two of Europe's most coveted strikers
Pique: Maybe Barcelona aren't as good as people say
The defender was frustrated at the lack of focus shown by his side during their 2-0 Champions League defeat to AC Milan, but insists they will fight to turn the tie around
Busquets named as Catalan Footballer of the Year
The Spain midfielder has beaten the likes of Xavi, Carles Puyol and Victor Valdes to the award, which will be presented at the Stars of Catalan Football gala on March 4
'With him, we are stronger' - Puyol welcomes Abidal's return
The Spain defender took to social media to express his delight after the 33-year-old was given the all-clear to return to first-team football
Xabi Alonso: Mourinho is one of the best
The Spain international claims he has grown as a player and a person under the Portuguese, who he says has a "good working relationship" with Iker Casillas
Abidal set for miraculous Barcelona return
The defender is now an option for the Blaugrana after a near-12 month absence following major surgery
Pele: Neymar is just an ordinary player
The three-time World Cup winner has launched a stinging attack on his compatriot, accusing him of underperforming for his country and being too concerned with his own image
Modric will show best form soon, says Stimac
The Croatia boss said that he is expecting the Real Madrid playmaker to get into his stride in the Spanish capital shortly after a difficult start to his Bernabeu career
Messi better than Maradona & Pele, says Galliani
The AC Milan CEO has revealed his admiration for the Barcelona superstar ahead of the Champions League last-16 first leg between the two European giants on Wednesday
'The media try to rule more than Mussolini' - Di Stefano
The Real Madrid legend has said that journalists should not align themselves with or against Jose Mourinho amid widespread reports of player unrest at the Santiago Bernabeu
I am a more relaxed coach than Mourinho, says Del Bosque
La Rojas' boss has drawn a comparison between himself and the 'Special One', and believes that the Portuguese takes a more aggressive approach while in charge of a team
Real Madrid are my 'sweetheart', claims Chelsea interim boss Benitez
The Spaniard is only contracted at Stamford Bridge until the end of the season and has been mentioned as a possible successor to Jose Mourinho, who looks set to leave los Blancos
Marchena: Depor must grow as a team and as players
The Deportivo centre-back, whose side face Los Blancos at the weekend, says the team must work together to improve their form in La Liga
Valencia's Rami out for up to three weeks
Los Che's centre-back is set to miss next week's Champions League round of 16 tie in Paris after tearing a hamstring during the Liga match against Mallorca over the weekend
Xavi: I'm in love with Barcelona's playing style
The Spain midfielder says he could not imagine playing football in any other way while, he believes the current side will be seen as one of the best ever sports teams
Falcao: Staying at Atletico is the best option for me
The former Porto striker believes his current team can challenge for top honours in both Spain and in Europe, whilst he also hushed talk of a move to a more high profile club
Kaka: I can shine for Real Madrid
The midfielder was close to leaving los Blancos in January but insists that he is ready to give his all to shine for the club after starting against Rayo Vallecano
Ancelotti: Impossible to choose between Messi & Ronaldo
The Paris Saint-Germain coach believes that the Barcelona and Real Madrid stars are evenly matched, and reiterated that he will stay in the French capital next season
Mourinho refuses to rule out Ligue 1 move
The Real Madrid coach has been linked with a return to the Premier League after his stint in La Liga, but has hinted that France could be a future destination
Flamini: Barcelona are getting the best out of Fabregas
The Frenchman feels his ex-Arsenal colleague is currently in the form of his life at Camp Nou, while the Spain international ranks the Frenchman among his favourite team-mates
La Liga preview: Sevilla get Barcelona on the rebound
21 February 2013
Barcelona's defeat in the Champions League on Wednesday does not bode well for Sevilla as the Catalan club almost never lose twice in a row.
Sevilla head coach Michel will undoubtedly be wondering what he did to annoy the football gods as he prepares to take his team to Barcelona on Saturday just three days after the La Liga-leaders lost 2-0 away to AC Milan.
Barcelona have only lost consecutive competitive fixtures on two occasions in the past four years and when they were stunned 2-1 by Celtic in the Champions League earlier this season, Tito Vilanova's men smashed Mallorca 4-2 in their next match.
The Catalan club were left frustrated in Milan as they failed to penetrate the home side's defensive formation.
Milan scored twice in the second half through Kevin-Prince Boateng and Sulley Muntari and now hold the upper hand ahead of their Round of 16 second leg versus Barcelona on March 12.
Sevilla head to Camp Nou in decent form in La Liga with three wins and a draw in their past five games, only losing to Real Madrid in that period, which has seen them move up to 10th position in the league standings.
Croatian midfielder Ivan Rakitic has been crucial to Sevilla's good form, scoring two goals and setting up another three in the past five games.
The match of the weekend could be Real Betis versus Malaga on Sunday with the former still in the hunt for European football next season.
Malaga sit fourth, which would normally give them a Champions League playoff berth, but they will be unable to compete in European football next season due to UEFA's Financial Fair Play rules.
Regardless, Malaga are in good form, despite their 1-0 loss to Porto on Tuesday, and will be a tough challenge for eighth-placed Real Betis.
Betis have plummeted down the table in recent weeks, having not won in five games and need to turn their form around if they are to challenge for a Europa League place.
The weekend's action begins on Friday when Athletic Bilbao host Real Sociedad in a Basque derby, while on Saturday, Mallorca are up against Getafe, Valencia are off to Zaragoza, Deportivo La Coruna face Real Madrid and Rayo Vallecano take on Real Valladolid.
On Sunday, second-placed Atletico Madrid welcome Espanyol to the Spanish capital and Celta de Vigo host Granada in a relegation six-pointer.
How Johan Cruyff quit smoking to save his life and help create today's legendary Barcelona
Feb 20, 2013 9:00:00 AM
The Dutchman gave up cigarettes after a heart bypass operation in his time as coach at Camp Nou, and a warning from his wife. The decision changed the history of the Catalan club
By Ben Hayward | Spanish Football Writer
"Football has given me everything in this life; tobacco almost took it all away." The phrase belongs to Johan Cruyff, one of the game's great players, coaches, innovators and the man behind much of the magnificent modern-day Barcelona. But had he not quit smoking in 1991, the legendary team of today at Camp Nou may never have been born.
Cruyff smoked from an early age and even football failed to deter the Dutchman in his playing days. Only one coach confronted the forward over his half-time habit of lighting up a cigarette. That was Hennes Weisweiler in 1975 and the German soon found himself out of a job.
Cruyff lit up straight after his first game for Barcelona and then again as he emerged from the showers. This was an all-assuming addiction, but it was as coach at the Catalan club when his smoking became a real issue.
The Dutchman took over at Camp Nou in 1988 and claimed the European Cup Winners' Cup and the Copa del Rey in his first two seasons in Catalunya. Nevertheless, his position was far from secure as the 1990-91 campaign got underway. Feeling the stress and the strain, Cruyff began to smoke more and more, puffing away nervously in the tunnel before games and getting through at least 20 cigarettes per day.
Then, in late February of 1991, the stress and the effects of the tobacco took their toll; Cruyff suffered severe pains in his heart and subsequently underwent double bypass surgery to correct the problem. His doctor, Mario Petit, later explained: "Cruyff has been very lucky because his injury is very bad and he has arrived in time to treat it." The surgeon told his patient that a return to coaching was possible, but there were two conditions. The first: he must take two months' rest. The second: he had to give up smoking.
Carry on and there would be no football anyway, no nothing, "I do not smoke because I was told I would die if I continued smoking," Cruyff later revealed. And there was also a warning from his wife: this has to stop!
Kicked the habit | Barca coach Cruyff in 1991, months before he suffered a heart attack
And it did. The Camel cigarettes were famously replaced by lollipops and Cruyff kicked the habit, even juggling a cigarette pack 16 times and booting it into touch in an awareness advert sponsored by the Catalan Department of Health.
Back on the pitch, a golden era began. Positive results reduced tension and the next four seasons brought four Liga titles, as well as a maiden European Cup. The 'Dream Team' was born. Barcelona were 'smoking' but, crucially, Cruyff was not.
The Netherlands legend had recommended the creation of a youth academy as he departed Camp Nou as a player in 1978, and a young Pep Guardiola was taking his first steps in the first team when the Dutchman was laid low with his heart problem. Cruyff changed Pep's position in the youth side and the midfielder formed a 'pivotal' part of the team which claimed the European Cup in 1992 at Wembley.
Back at English football's showpiece stadium in 2011, Guardiola's side sealed their second Champions League crown in three years for the Catalan club - a fourth success for Barca in Europe's premier competition. The second had arrived in 2006 under Frank Rijkaard who, like Pep, had been recommended to then president Joan Laporta by Cruyff. So the Dutchman, beyond his own Dream Team and the creation of La Masia, remains ever-present in the mechanics of modern-day Barca.
And while there may be less links with the Barcelona board of today and president Sandro Rosell, Cruyff was there with comforting words for current coach Tito Vilanova after it was announced in December the Catalan would need to take time out to recover from a relapse of his tumour.
"My first thoughts go to his wife and children. Those are the ones who suffer the most. You have to be with the family," Cruyff said. "Of course Tito will return. I always believe so. I think so because when you are sick you have to be positive."
Thanks to Cruyff's positivity and his ability to kick cigarettes into touch, Barcelona fans are currently enjoying perhaps the finest club side in the history of the game. Hard to imagine now that those dreams almost went up in a puff of smoke.
Joaquin targets Malaga improvement
The 31-year-old was disappointed with his side, who showed "no spark," in one of their heaviest defeats of the season against Betis on Sunday
It's impossible to separate Barcelona & Madrid, says Del Bosque
The 62-year-old believes that either side could triumph during Tuesday's Clasico at Camp Nou, and is refusing to class 2012-13 as a failure for Spanish football
Fellaini needs Messi's temperament, claims Moyes
The Toffees manager has called on the Belgian to take a leaf out of the Barcelona star's book, claiming that he is unfairly singled out for rough treatment by opposing players
Dani Alves: I wouldn't sign anyone from Madrid
The Barcelona full-back believes the Blaugrana squad is good enough as it is without having to poach any of their rivals' players, and is looking forward to Tuesday's Clasico
Falcao flying the flag for Colombian football, says Valderrama
The Cafeteros legend says the Atletico Madrid star has become the poster boy for the county and is enthusiastic about the prospect of World Cup qualification
Roura: I hope the referee doesn't ruin El Clasico
The interim Barcelona coach has called for the officials to "go unnoticed" during the clash with Real Madrid, asking for both sides to play the game in a sporting manner
Fabregas: Real Madrid are very dangerous
The former Arsenal star is eagerly anticipating Tuesday's encounter and expects a difficult match at Camp Nou
Extra Time: Messi masters cricket in nutritional ad campaign
The Barcelona sensation takes his sporting expertise to new levels in a series of video commercials for Herbalife, where he takes on the likes of basketball icon Kobe Bryant
Rosell: Current Barcelona team the best of all-time
The 48-year-old regards the present Blaugrana squad as the greatest of all-time, and has insisted that they are always looking to sign the best players
Messi: I do not need rest
The prolific attacker is eager to play every game and says he feels and performs better with regular matches
Pepe: Varane will be best in the world
The 29-year-old defender believes his team-mate can become one of the best in the world and says los Blancos need to work as a team in order to beat Barcelona on Tuesday
Kaka: Mourinho needs me now
The 30-year-old believes he still has a role to play at the club following his stunning goal on Saturday and says victory was important ahead of their Barca clash
Pique: Ibrahimovic and Balotelli are not bad guys
The Barcelona defender believes the media portray football’s supposed “bad boys” unfairly, suggesting all they want to do is concentrate on their game
Emery: Sevilla took an important step in Barcelona defeat
Los Rojiblancos coach remained upbeat despite watching his side surrender a 1-0 lead at Camp Nou
Marcelo unsure over Clasico starting berth
The Brazil full-back is upbeat about his current form for Real Madrid, but admits that it is the coach's decision whether he faces the Blaugrana
Sevilla made us work for the win, says Dani Alves
The full-back gives credit to his former side, admitting that the league leaders were forced to put in considerable effort to seal the victory at Camp Nou
Miguel Pardeza: Kaka's form is 'important' for Real Madrid's season
Los Blancos director reserved special praise for the Brazil midfielder after his performance on Saturday, but stressed that the entire squad need to play well
Messi demands Barcelona step up for Clasico
The Argentine attacker believes that the Blaugrana need to improve if they are to beat Real Madrid on Tuesday, while Camp Nou stand-in coach Jordi Roura hailed David Villa
Karanka fumes over referees red-carding Madrid players
The los Blancos assistant lambasted the official for what he believes was a soft sending off for Angel Di Maria against Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday night
Simeone: I knew I was coming back to Atletico Madrid
The former Argentina international claimed a return to the club he represented as a player was destined to be, before urging his team to continue their good form in the league
'I do not care about rumours' - Pellegrini dismisses Malaga exit talk
The Chilean coach has been linked with Chelsea, Manchester City and Roma in recent weeks, but insists that he is very happy with life at La Rosaleda
Bielsa unfazed by Athletic slump
Defeat in the Basque derby on Friday saw the Argentine's troops make it just one win in their last nine matches, but he is refusing to panic in the face of adversity
Messi & Neymar would be almost unstoppable at Barcelona - Luis Fabiano
The former Sevilla ace has advised his compatriot to make a move to Spain - with the Catalan giants if possible - and reveals how close he came to joining the Blaugrana in the past
Sunken Adan must leave Real Madrid, says father
The dad of the Blancos goalkeeper has revealed the situation at the Santiago Bernabeu is beyond repair and accuses coach Jose Mourinho of showing his son a lack of respect
Ronaldo: Criticism is part of football
The Portugal star admits he is unfazed when people question his form on the pitch, and admitted he would love to remain involved in football when he retires from playing
Morata: Mourinho is the world's best coach
The Castilla product has dismissed suggestions that the Portuguese disregards younger members of the squad by claiming he maintains close relationships with all of his players
Laudrup wins by a landslide in next Madrid boss poll
The former Blancos and Barcelona midfielder won a without a real challenger, suggesting that he is the fans' preferred choice to replace Jose Mourinho
Manchester United striker Rooney: Messi is the best ever
The England striker says that despite playing with the Real Madrid star at Old Trafford, he would have to say that the Barcelona man is the better player of the two
'Barca should play football, not talk about referees' - Mourinho
By Chris Kvesa
25 Feb 2013 15:10:00
The 50-year-old has challenged the Blaugrana to teach his side a "lesson" in the game when they clash on Tuesday, as opposed to complaining about officials
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho believes Barcelona should focus on football rather than talking about the referees ahead of the second-leg Copa del Rey clash at the Camp Nou.
Barcelona interim coach Jordi Roura voiced his reservations over the appointment of Alberto Undiano Mallecano as the referee for the Clasico, and the Blancos trainer feels they should concentrate on the game itself.
"I prefer to stay with the lessons we have received in the past from Barcelona. Lessons in sportsmanship, how to be in football. Not talking about the referees, not surrounding them, trying to get opponents booked," he sarcastically told reporters.
"And, of course, giving lessons on how to play football, they do that very well. They would be well advised if they humbly followed that line."
The former Chelsea boss is looking forward to the encounter as his side look to rescue their season with a Copa triumph.
"These are the games we like to play and I like going into with the players. We prefer games this dimension and this difficulty."
Brazilian star Kaka starred in Madrid's 2-1 victory at Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday, but Mourinho is not sure yet if the former AC Milan star will make an appearance.
"I do not know. Not that I would not want to say it. I have not thought of it. Normally I do not say it. This time I do not know. "
PSG are Ronaldo's most likely destination, says Canizares
By Will Jones
Feb 25, 2013 4:35:00 PM
The former Valencia and Real Madrid goalkeeper believes that the 28-year-old is tired of playing second fiddle to Lionel Messi, but will probably elect to say at the Bernabeu
Former Real Madrid goalkeeper Santiago Canizares believes that Paris Saint-Germain would be Cristiano Ronaldo's most likely destination should he decide to leave the club.
The Portuguese admitted that he is unhappy at the Bernabeu in September, prompting a wave of speculation in linking him with an exit, and the former Spain international thinks France could be a possible destination.
"Cristiano is a little tired of losing against Barcelona," he told Le10Sport.
"He is suffering a lot. He has won the league only once since he arrived. It is very hard to lose against Barca all the time. Around the world, we talk about Messi and then Ronaldo. He wants to be better than Messi but he cannot.
"If he leaves Madrid, it may be a possibility for him to change country and play in a league he does not know. He has already played and won titles in England, and I do not think he will go back to go to Manchester City or Chelsea.
"In Italy there is a restriction on wages so he won't go there. In Germany, there is Bayern, but they are not a club who bet heavily on stars, they have a different mentality.
"There are not many teams to turn to and it is clear that that Paris Saint-Germain are the great rival to Real Madrid on this issue."
Canizares, who began his career with los Blancos, thinks that a Ronaldo exit would be catastrophic for the club but is confident he will stay.
"Real Madrid cannot think of building a team in Spain or Europe without Cristiano. Without him, they have no chance. But I think he will stay. Cristiano and Real Madrid is a marriage that will last many years."
Osasuna boosted their survival hopes in La Liga with a late 2-0 win away to Levante on Monday.
Jose Mendilibar's men needed interventions from substitutes Masoud Shojaei and Enrique Sola to secure all three points, which took them five points clear of the drop.
Osasuna now sit in 14th spot on 28 points, six behind the team they conquered at the Estadio Ciudad de Valencia, who are in 10th spot.
Iranian Shojaei netted in the 88th minute, just eight minutes after replacing Miguel De las Cuevas, before Sola scored in the fourth minute of added time.
The result extended Osasuna's unbeaten run in the league to three matches - with their only loss in their past seven coming at the hands of Barcelona.
Levante fell to their first defeat in three in all competitions, however they have picked up just one point in their past four league clashes.
See? That was a weak reply. You like this unpopular job then go and beg him. All along u only went for ordinary accounts and were ballsless to zap InfP accounts until u got pwned.
Why don't u continue your nuisance and i will see how long u can last.
Xabi Alonso: Ronaldo the most ambitious player I have ever met The midfielder says the Portuguese has the perfect blend of athleticism and technical ability to complement his persistent drive for success
Barcelona can beat AC Milan, insists Antic The 64-year-old has voiced his opinion that the Blaugrana can still progress in Europe, despite a rocky run of form
Alexis Sanchez would fit in well at Juventus, says Asamoah The Ghana international would welcome the winger with open arms if they were to be reunited at the Old Lady next season
Lopez hails Madrid's 'perfect' performance The Blancos' goalkeeper claimed the Liga champions produced a flawless display in their Copa del Rey scalp of Barcelona at Camp Nou on Tuesday
Iniesta: We must stay optimistic The Blaugrana star says his team must not lose their self-belief, despite recent setbacks in the Uefa Champions League and the Copa del Rey
Santos hoping to tie down Neymar The club's vice-president has confirmed negotiations have opened up between the two parties over a new deal, and also denies Barcelona have struck a deal for the player
Vidal: Messi is better than Maradona The Chilean believes that while he has only seen the former Argentina star fleetingly, the Barca forward has done enough already to be considered greater than his compatriot
Real Madrid can beat anyone, says Varane The Blancos youngster feels that they are a match for anyone in world football when they perform as they did in their win over Barcelona at Camp Nou on Tuesday
Iniesta: Barcelona are missing Vilanova The playmaker has admitted that his team’s dip in form can be attributed mainly to the fact that they have no boss, and has defended Lionel Messi following the loss to Real Madrid
Ronaldo: Barcelona victory gives us great confidence to take to Manchester United The Real Madrid forward was delighted with his side's convincing win at Camp Nou and says his team are looking forward to the Old Trafford clash in the Champions League
Unwell Messi misses Barcelona training The Argentina international has picked up a fever and consequently missed Wednesday's practice session
Xavi: Copa del Rey least important trophy The Spain international believes two trophies of greater significance are still at stake and is remaining upbeat amid a poor run of form
Mourinho will leave Real Madrid, says Helguera The former Spain international expects the 50-year-old to depart the Santiago Bernabeu in the summer - unless they win the Champions League
Real Madrid loss will make us stronger, says Jordi Alba The Spain international is confident that the Blaugrana will soon get back to winningways and is still hopeful they will reach the Champions League quarter-finals
Fabregas: Barcelona must learn from Madrid defeat The former Arsenal star feels the Catalans must give more on the pitch, and is desperate to move on from their recent defeats
Fans' reaction is unpleasant, says Victor Ruiz The 24-year-old Valencia defender has spoken about recent criticism from fans, and is looking forward to adopting his preferred role in central defence against Levante on Saturday
Ronaldo: Madrid players perfect against Barcelona The Portuguese attacker netted a double in the Clasico as Los Blancos knocked out their arch rivals to progress to the final of the Copa del Rey
Ramos: Ronaldo always shows up for these games The defender was full of praise for the Portuguese forward and Raphael Varane, while Blancos legend Emilio Butragueno also had positive words for the pair
Emery demands 'bite' and brains against Atletico The Sevilla coach has said they are determined to win Wednesday's Copa del Rey semi-final, but wants his team to play with intelligence as well as aggression to secure victory
Spahic set to leave Sevilla for Anzhi The Bosnia defender is to hold talks with the Russian Premier League side on Tuesday ahead of a possible move to the club from his La Liga side
Calderon: Mourinho set for Paris Saint-Germain The former los Blancos president feels that the Portuguese's attitude has led to disharmony in the dressing room and blamed Florentino Perez for bringing him to the club
Zico: Lucas could be more important than Neymar The former Udinese player thinks that while Neymar is better Lucas is more important to the national team, and adds that Messi is not as good as Maradona
Valencia clinch Valdez signing Paraguay forward joins Los Che for an undisclosed transfer fee on a two-and-a-half year deal, after spending the first half of the season on loan from the Russian club
Menotti: Mourinho will have to go if Real Madrid lose next three matches The former Argentina trainer believes Los Blancos will have nothing to play for if they are defeated and that the pressure on Mourinho will become too much for him to stay
Canales confident that Valencia can progress past PSG Los Che's attacker believes that his side have what it takes to overcome the 2-1 first-leg defeat to the French league leaders to make the next round of this year's competition
Conte to stay at Juventus despite Real Madrid and Chelsea interest The former Italy international could be offered a new deal before the end of the season, despite his current contract running until 2015, as he looks to continue building in Turin
The number 10 position is dead, says Ze Roberto The former Brazil international, who won two Copa Americas, thinks the role of the playmaker has changed during his career to the extent that is unrecognisable now
Afellay set for Barcelona return The Netherlands international has not featured since November and having reportedly fallen out with the physios at the Veltins-Arena now looks set to return to Camp Nou in May
Barcelona waiting for Neymar's signal, says Bartomeu The Blaugrana official has made it clear the club are still keen to sign the forward, but will wait for the player to make a decision on his future
Berlusconi: Bojan could stay with AC Milan The former Spain Under-21 international's future is undecided as of yet, but he could remain at San Siro beyond this season
Real Madrid want Swansea boss Laudrup, insists Toshack The Welshman has compared the Swans manager's aura to that of Dutch legend Johan Cruyff, and has suggested that he will succeed Jose Mourinho at the Santiago Bernabeu
Fabregas: Barcelona do not like to complain to the press The Spain international has hit back at Jose Mourinho's claims that the Catalans talk too much, and has praised Lionel Messi's mental strength
Valverde plays down Valencia advantage for Levante clash The Murcielagos coach does not not believe that league form has any importance in derby games as his side ready themselves to face Levante
Calderon: No Madrid president would sell Ronaldo The former Blancos chief believes that the Portuguese attacker's problems with the club were not financially motivated, and praised Tuesday night's Barcelona-beating performance
Aduriz admits fault in Athletic Bilbao slump The Spanish striker has admitted he is worried that his lack of goals has contributed to the La Liga side's slump in league form
Costa plays down involvement in Sevilla red cards The Brazilian striker believes he did nothing to cause the two red cards during the semi-final clash against Sevilla
Alba: I'll go nuts if I score at the Bernabeu The Barcelona left-back found the net during his side's 3-1 loss to Real Madrid on Tuesday, and is hoping to do so once more when the two sides clash this weekend
Kaka dreams of MLS, says Digao The Real Madrid star's brother has been persuading the 30-year-old to make the move across the Atlantic amid speculation linking him with a Bernabeu exit
Tiago undergoes surgery on broken arm Tests on Wednesday confirmed the extent of the 31-year-old's injury, which he sustained during a challenge with Sevilla midfielder Gary Medel
