Since Barcelona's loss to Osasuna last week, many believe their chance of catching up to Madrid is over. Even Spain coach Vicente Del Bosque thinks the opportunity for Barcelona to reclaim the title is lost. Victor Valdes believes otherwise. With 16 games left to play, there are many points at stake and players should be optimistic and not lose hope of gaining on Madrid.
"I still believe we can win the league. We are professionals and we must accept victories and defeats in equal measure," Valdes said.
"I still believe we can win the league. We are professionals and we must accept victories and defeats in equal measure," Valdes said.
Real Madrid have only lost to Levante and Barcelona this season and Cristiano looks like he's on the way to win the Pichichi trophy as well. While he accepts it, I would like him to thank the refs for giving him so many penalties.
The absence of David Villa has greatly affected the whole team. Villa will hopefully start training with the team by mid-March. Other injuries with Iniesta, Pedro, Afellay, Fontas and Xavi have also influenced team performances. Afellay is expected back in a month and Fontas at the start of next season. Xavi has talked down his leg injury, but has only played one match out of the past five.
Away from the league, Barcelona have stayed alive in the Champions League, winning 3-1 against Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday. The champions of last year's tournament have also won all of their away matches (Barca host BL on March 7).
This weekend Barcelona face third place team Valencia at home. Real Madrid play the day before, Saturday, against 18th place team Racing Santander. We can hope that Mourinho will rest some starters before their Champions League match at CSKA Moscow next week.
