Monday, 14th April, 2014
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti feels the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona will be an important match for his side on a mental level.
The Whites climbed to second in La Liga’s table, three points behind leaders Atletico Madrid, when they defeated Almeria 4-0 on Saturday, and will be hoping to continue their winning momentum when they take on Tata Martino’s side in the final at the Mestella on Wednesday for the first major silverware of the season.
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The Catalans on the other hand, lost their last league game 1-0 to Granada, after their Champions League quarter-final exit against Spanish rivals Atletico Madrid last week.
But Ancelotti is wary of the Camp Nou outfit and feels winning the trophy will be the right motivation the side need to end the season on a high.
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“This game is important for a lot of reasons. Firstly, it is the first title of the season that we can win. Secondly, because we will take on a great side like Barcelona”, the Italian manager was quoted as saying by Real Madrid’s site.
“All of this gives the game a lot of importance. The possibility of winning the first trophy of the season is motivation for us.
“On a mental level, I think it will be very important. I think after this game, the side that wins will have more motivation, illusion and desire to play their best until the end of the season”, the 54-year-old continued.
“I think from a mental point of view, it will be very important."
Real Madrid are also in contention for the Champions League this year and will play the first leg of their semi-final against defending champions Bayern Munich at the Santiago Bernabeu on 23rd April.
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