POST MATCH: All square in the El Clasico Copa del Rey semi final first leg

Barcelona secured a draw in El Clasico Copa del Rey semi final first leg against rivals Real Madrid, thanks to a second half goal from Malcom.

The 21 year old has struggled for first team opportunities his season, but he was handed a rare start following an injury to skipper Lionel Messi, and he grabbed his opportunity with both hands.

Real took the lead inside the first five minutes, as Lucas Vazquez turned home Karim Benzema's far post cut back, and the visitors dominated the opening stages, but were unable to find a second goal.

Ernesto Valverde's Barcelona rallied towards the end of the half, with Ivan Rakitic heading against the bar and Luis Suarez forcing Real keeper Keylor Navas into a fine save.

The home side took the initiative after the break, with Suarez firing against the post, following an error from Navas, and Malcom was on hand to net a close range equaliser. 

Both sides made changes in the closing stages, with Messi and Gareth Bale being introduced, but a winning goal proved elusive – with the Welshman missing a late chance for Santiago Solari's side. 

La Liga - Club News