Luis Suarez claims the ‘intensity and force’ of a Clasico between Barcelona and Real Madrid is on par with that of a cup final.
The Uruguayan made his debut for La Blaugrana in the first 2014-15 meeting between the sides last October but struggled to make an impression at the Santiago Bernabeu, despite registering an assist.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s encounter at Camp Nou, however, the 27-year-old is anticipating a better outcome, given the improved form shown by both him and his team in the months which have followed.
“We have to be at our best [in time for the Clasico],” he began in an interview with Gol TV.
“We have to enjoy it but we must concentrate on trying to do our best to get the win.
“This type of match means a lot to the team morally and mentally, and it’ll give us confidence.
“Hopefully we’ll put on a show for everyone. These kind of games aren’t easy to play in, therefore we must enjoy it and seize the moment.
“I remember the 5-0 game [in 2010] because I was there. It was one of those moments which live long in the memory.
“[I remember] seeing how the fans celebrated, while the players also celebrated on the pitch. That was incredible.
“Obviously, Real Madrid are Real Madrid. There’s no point saying anything else about them because everyone knows the quality of the players they have in attack.
“However, we also know their defensive deficiencies, so we must try to take advantage of this
“Barcelona-Real Madrid is 90 minutes long and you never know what might happen.
“It’s a final because Real Madrid-Barcelona is always played properly, with great intensity and force.
“These games are very intense but we also know that in the League today, anything can happen.
“It’s been demonstrated in recent games that anyone can take points off you, that’s the beauty of La Liga.
“Today, everyone’s our rival, but I don’t think the Clasico will be decisive [in the title race].
“I tried not to think so much about the atmosphere [during my first Clasico], but rather I tried to concentrate on doing well.
“Seeing as it was my first game, I didn’t enjoy it in the way I’d have liked [to enjoy] Barcelona-Real Madrid, but I hope to enjoy it this time around.”
