Andres Iniesta is expecting a highly competitive Copa del Rey final when Barcelona and Real Madrid meet on April 19.
Los Blancos saw off city rivals Atletico Madrid with a 5-0 aggregate win while Barca dispatched Real Sociedad 3-1, drawing 1-1 at Anoeta on Wednesday night.
The final is expected to be held at Valencia’s Mestalla, the site of the 2011 final between the sides.
Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid won that game through a Cristiano Ronaldo goal in extra time and Iniesta, who started the occasion under Pep Guardiola, admitted it’s a result that still bothers Barca.
“We have a thorn in our side for that final,” Iniesta told reporters.
“Madrid is a good choice to win a trophy against.
“It will be a great final between two strong teams, although it is very far away.
“We must focus on other things for now and we’ll get to it when we get to it.”
Iniesta added that the victory over La Real wasn’t as comfortable as the 2-0 first-leg score line may have suggested.
“2-0 was good but misleading. We had to come with intensity or we’d have struggled.
“But La Real didn’t have many options so the tie was practically done.
“We played a good match and did a good job. When we play well everything is better.
“We’re pleased that we’re going to play another final, since finals aren’t played every day.
“It’s an achievement to be in the final for another year.”
