The stage is set for the third and most important Clasico this year. Yes, this one really determines who wins silverware. But the major news that is on everyone’s lips is that the current La Liga and UEFA Champions League leading goal scorer, Cristiano Ronaldo, will not be featuring in this crucial showdown due to injury, which is a pity to Madridistas and neutrals alike.

Real Madrid face Barcelona in a rematch of the 2011 Copa del Rey final that saw Madrid come out as victors after 2 hours of play. A Ronaldo header found the back of the net after the two teams failed to score in normal time. Since then both have participated in the 2012 and 2013 finals respectively. Real Madrid have the most recent final appearance where they lost to their city rivals, Athletico Madrid, in the most agonizing way. They will be seeking to avenge that loss tonight. Barcelona also come into this one with much will to win as it possibly is their last chance to win silverware this season.
The past few games leading to this final have been quite disappointing from the Catalans. The fans are giving them stick and a Ronaldo-less Madrid might be just the team to take advantage of in these circumstances.From the looks of things it seems Gareth Bale will have to step up and try his almighty best to shine in this final. The Welshman has been heavily criticized this season for disappearing in “huge matches” and what better occasion than this to prove your haters wrong.

Much like the Welshman at Real Madrid, superstar Brasilian Neymar has been thrust into the European limelight this season following a big money move from abroad but he too hasn’t been able to consistently put in the performances that have made him one of the most marketable athletes in the world.

Now, let's turn our attention to our Catalan rivals. Lionel Messi has yet to reproduce his best form but he's still a frighteningly good player capable of changing the game with one breakaway dribble, through-ball or perfectly -placed shot. Add to that the fancy footwork of Neymar, the puppeteering of Xavi, the composure of Iniesta and the vision of Fabregas and you've got yourself a proper rival.
Even with this amount of talent in the front, Barcelona’s defensive woes continue. Shakira’s number one fan will be sidelined for this match so expect some loop holes to exposed by the front trio of Real Madrid.

Confirmed Line-Ups

Real Madrid : Casillas, Carvajal, Pepe, Ramos, Coentrão, Modrić, Xabi, Di Maria, Bale, Benzema.Isco

Barcelona : Pinto; Alves, Mascherano, Bartra, Alba; Busquets, Xavi, Iniesta; Neymar, Cesc, Messi

Matchday highlights

Barcelona 1-2 Real Madrid

Ángel di María (0-1) 10'

Marc Bartra (1-1) 68'

Gareth Bale (1-2) 85'