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Pep Guardiola: Loser of Copa del Rey clash between Barcelona and Real Madrid will end up wounded
The successful coach has voiced his opinion that defeat in the quarter-final tie could have consequences in other competitions for either his team or their bitter rivals
Jan 18, 2012 7:00:00 AM
By Stefan Coerts
Pep Guardiola - Barcelona
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has stated his belief that the outcome of the Copa del Rey tie between the Catalans and La Liga table-topper Real Madrid could affect both clubs' form in the remainder of the season.
Madrid hosts its archrivals at the Santiago Bernabeu for the first leg of the tie on Wednesday, and Guardiola is determined to get a good result in what he expects to be a difficult encounter.
"The team that loses this tie will end up wounded, and has to recover very quick," the coach told reporters at his press conference.
"I expect a very even game. Madrid are the strongest rival that we could possibly come across. Against Madrid, no one can feel as though they are favourites."
Wednesday's match at the Bernabeu kicks off at 4 p.m. ET with the second leg coming up next week.
Madrid hosts its archrivals at the Santiago Bernabeu for the first leg of the tie on Wednesday, and Guardiola is determined to get a good result in what he expects to be a difficult encounter.
"The team that loses this tie will end up wounded, and has to recover very quick," the coach told reporters at his press conference.
"I expect a very even game. Madrid are the strongest rival that we could possibly come across. Against Madrid, no one can feel as though they are favourites."
Wednesday's match at the Bernabeu kicks off at 4 p.m. ET with the second leg coming up next week.
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