Two defeats in a row and the Europa League elimination are anything but a promising prelude for the derby of all the derbies when it comes to Barcelona.They’re heading into tomorrow’s Spanish Cup semifinal first-leg clash against their archrival Real Madrid with lots of concerns and injuries, too. That’s one of the reasons Barca’s gaffer Xavi Hernandez told the press his boys are the underdogs in the following El Classico. Xavi has no strikers ahead of duel with Real: Fati is also injuredOf course, a promising coach is also trying to release pressure from his squad, which is facing various issues both on and off the pitch.”They won the last titles, and we are in the process of building. We beat them with extraordinary football last year, but Madrid thrashed Liverpool at Anfield. I have to be honest, I see them as favourites, clearly. We are talking about the current champions of La Liga and Europe. But we can hurt them. We have already shown that we can do it. I think the tie will be very even.”##NAJAVA_MECA_7059939##He was also asked on multiple occasions whether there was fear or concern within the Barcelona squad, especially given the potential impact on momentum.Xavi has said 5 times that Real Madrid are the favourites for the Copa del Rey in today’s press conference.— @fansjavimiguel pic.twitter.com/2Rc5N3C9ld— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) March 1, 2023 “Fear gives us negative things, we have to think positively. We have competed well so far. We will show our football model and personality.””We are fine. Each game is its own story. We are in an ideal and privileged situation to win titles. In La Liga, we have a seven-point advantage. It can go wrong, but we’re working.”The return leg will be played at Camp Nou a month from now.COPA DEL REY – SemifinalsFirst legWednesday 23.00: (3.00) Osasuna (3.00) Ath.Bilbao (2.60)Thursday 23.00: (2.00) Real Madrid (3.60) Barcelona (4.00)***odds are subject to change
