Xavi makes bold claim before facing Real Madrid in final

The first El Clasico of the season had ended in a comfortable 3-1 win for Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu. Back then, Los Blancos were looking absolutely unstoppable and potentially running away with the La Liga title race. Unfortunately, things have changed a lot over the past few months. It is now Barcelona who top the league table, ahead by three points.

Real Madrid’s 2-1 loss vs Villarreal allowed Barcelona to open up the gap, following a 1-0 win over Atletico Madrid. None of that will matter much though, when the two sides meet each in the final of the Spanish Super Cup in Riyadh this weekend.

It must be pointed out that neither side has looked in good form lately. Real Madrid have seemed sluggish since their return from the World Cup break and got past Valencia in the semis on penalty kicks, after a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes. On the other hand, penalties decided the semis between Barcelona and Real Betis as well, with their game ending 2-2.

Despite their unconvincing recent form, one thing that will be giving Real Madrid fans hope is Carlo Ancelotti’s fabulous record in finals. Xavi does not seem worried about that though. As reported by Marca, the Barcelona manager said about the matter:

“Records are for breaking, and you should remember that I’ve also been very lucky in finals.

“We need to know where we are as a group, and you telling me that Ancelotti hasn’t lost a final since 2010 only motivates me more.”

Xavi makes bold claim before facing Real Madrid in Spanish Super Cup final

It is safe to say that form often goes out of the window when it comes to finals and winning them is an art in itself.

Of course, no team on the planet is better under the pressure than Real Madrid, who have made a habit out of winning big matches. Their five Champions League titles over the past nine seasons is undeniable proof of that.

Will they be able to get the job done in the Spanish Super Cup final as well? Only time shall tell. But fans should expect a close game between Spain’s two best teams.