Karim Benzema has dismissed the idea that Barcelona are favourites against Real Madrid in their Copa del Rey semi-final.
The Catalans are 15 points ahead of Madrid in the League table and play the second leg of this Cup semi-final with home advantage.
“When we play in Barcelona we play well. We don’t lose many matches there. We’re better each year and I don’t think that Barcelona is the favourite to win,” commented French striker Benzema to reporters today.
“They are a great team, but we are as well. We know that it’s going to be difficult but I hope we win. We’re a great squad and we want to stay that way.
“A Real Madrid-Barcelona is the best match in the world. We’re two amazing teams. It’s always a difficult game and the fans are ready to see a good game.
“The Clasicos are always different matches, but tomorrow we aim to score goals and win. Although we know that it’s a two-game round, we’re playing at home tomorrow and we want to play well and win.
“We played really well against them in the second round of the Supercopa and we hope for another victory. We’re ready for the match.”
It has been a difficult season in the capital for Los Blancos, but Benzema was clear in his support of Coach Jose Mourinho.
“We’re very united and we don’t have any problem with the Coach. I don’t know why they say that.
“Our injuries going into tomorrow? It would be better if everyone was available, but we’re a good group and a solid squad that’s going to try to win tomorrow.”
Benzema and Gonzalo Higuain usually vie for a single spot in Mourinho’s teams.
“The competition is good for everyone and above all for the club. I want to play more, that’s normal. I don’t know any player who likes to sit on the bench.
“He also wants to play more, but the decision comes down to the coach and I’ll have to work to play more.”
