This is going to be a highly exciting day for FC Barcelona fans as their team braces for the Copa del Rey final against their arch-rivals, Real Madrid.
While such a high-stakes encounter would generate a lot of excitement even in normal circumstances, the controversies involving the referees and the Merengue club make it even more compelling.
Still, the Blaugranes remain the favorites to win this match, especially considering the form they have shown since the start of the year.
However, as SPORT has reported, a former Barcelona star, Rivaldo, warned the Catalans not to take this final lightly, as Los Blancos will put up a lot of fight to win it.
The Brazilian legend said in this regard:
“Real Madrid is going to do everything possible to try to save the season by winning the Copa against their great rival, who are in good form. It is clearly their big chance to save this season.”
Rivaldo recognised that the Blaugranes should be the favorites, but also understood that this status would not mean much in a final:
“Theoretically, Barcelona are the favorites, but we know that in football, when it’s a final between Barcelona and Real Madrid, there can be no clear favorite. We see that Barça are doing well in La Liga and the Champions League, but this is a different competition and it’s a one-off final.”
There is definitely some merit in Rivaldo’s words, as even though Real Madrid are not having a very good season, they still have some players who can turn the game in their side’s favor with their individual performances.
Still, Barcelona remain the stronger side going into this game, and their record against the Whites this season – 2 wins in two games – also backs them to win the final at La Cartuja tonight.
