The Spanish international has insisted that La Blaugrana can take up the challenge of the Basque outfit in the Copa del Rey showdown.
Barcelona’s Xavi is of the opinion that the Catalan giants are fully capable of overcoming Athletic Bilbao in the final of the Copa del Rey, despite the squad having a number of defensive absentees.
The tournament’s showpiece event is set to take place on May 25, at the http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Vicente-c36001 Calderon.
The match that takes place at the home stadium of Atletico Madrid is expected to be highly competitive and immensely thrilling.
Although La Blaugrana are tipped as the favourites to acquire the silverware from the game, they are missing some key players from the team.
The absentees include Barca skipper, http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Daniel-c9879 Alves; and veteran Frenchman, Eric Abidal.
Many believe that the Nou Camp outfit are bound to suffer due to the growing injury list in the Catalan capital and that a serious lack in defence can cause the footballing juggernauts the cup.
However, Xavi has maintained that Azulgranas can prevail despite the defensive weaknesses, in order to secure the trophy.
While talking to reporters, the 32-year-old was quoted as saying:
"We are missing important players. Puyol's injury is important, Abidal we all know, and also Dani's. We are very sensitive (vulnerable) now that we don't have our regulars in defence. But the rest are prepared to take part.”
"http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Adriano-c3773 is playing very well, Martin Montoya is playing at a very high level, and Mascherano and Pique have been taking part too. Let's see what defence the coach chooses but these guys are ready to compete."
On the other hand, http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Marcelo-c23554 Bielsa’s men are looking for a chance at redemption and this appears to be their only opportunity to end the season on a high note.
Los Leones managed to qualify for two important finals in this season’s campaign. Having lost the final of the Europa League to Atletico Madrid, the Copa del Rey final is their last chance at acquiring silverware this season.
Athletic Bilbao do pose a serious threat to Barcelona, but can they take the game to the Spanish giants and win the Copa del Rey? We can only find out.
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