Barca face Bayern, Juventus stuck with Real.

 

Champions League draw: Juventus FC vs Real Madrid CF

The first leg set to be played on 5/6 May while reverse fixture will be on 12/13 May.

Real Madrid have been paired with Juventus FC for the semifinals of UEFA Champions League. The first leg will be played on 5 May at Turin while the reverse fixture on 13 May at Santiago Bernabeau.

On the other hand, Barcelona host Bayern Munich on 6 May while the return leg will be played on 12 May.

The draw took place in Nyon and Karl-Heinze and Infannito hosted the event.

In Europa League, Dnipro was paired with SSC Napoli and Fiorentina take on defending champions Sevilla.

Barcelona advanced with 5-1 win over PSG while Bayern stunned Porto with a 7-4 win. Juventus won 1-0 on aggregate and Real overcame city rivals Atletico 1-0, thanks to a late Chicharito strike.

Here, we analyse both the ties.

                        FC BARCELONA                                       FC BAYERN MUNCHEN

FC Barcelona vs Bayern Munchen may be the match of this year's semi final. Both the teams are in stuttering form and both of them advanced to the semis with ease. Meanwhile, the tie means Guardiola returns to Camp Nou for the first time since his departure. 

The last time the two met was back in 2013 where Bayern thumped to a 7-0 win. But things weren't same since. Barcelona are in great form this year and are looking to emulate  their first season under Guardiola where they won a historic treble. They are at the to of the league and are in the finals of Copa del Rey. They have the best trio right now, with Messi, Neymar and Suarez all unstoppable. They have a well defined midfield and a comprehensive defence. With the current form, Barcelona can make it all the way to Berlin.

On the other side, Bayern Munich possess a stiff task for Catalans. They will lift Bundesliga next week and are also on the course of a treble. They are in the semi finals of DFB Pokal and will play against Dortmund this week. When it comes to how they advanced to the semis, Bayern came from 3-1 loss to win 6-1 against Porto. Like Barcelona, they have fantastic midfield and attack and a better defense than Catalans.

Like I  said before, the two talking points will be: Josep Guardiola and Lionel Messi.

Surely, this is the best of the ties.

                    JUVENTUS FC                                                REAL MADRID CF

Real Madrid got paired with the Old Lady who made it to this stage after 12 years. Both of them advanced in a tense manner though Real Madrid added more drama to its game.

The last time the two met was back last in 2013 where Real Madrid won 2-1 and drew 2-2 respectively. However, a better Juventus side could provide more resistance against a Real Madrid who are without Bale, Benzema and Modric. Juventus are also on the verge of a treble with the league in their hands and progress for Coppa Italia final. They have a really good defence that hasn't conceded a goal for the past nine matches. The midfield with Pogba, Pirlo and Vidal are technically powerful and in-form Tevez and former Real striker Morata could also prove crucial. The goalkeeping will be handled by legendary Buffon. 

Meanwhile, Madrid overcame Atletico Madrid in a stunning fashion. They were out from the cup race back in January and now lie two points behind in the league. However, they still remain as a threat in Europe's elite competition and would look to become the first team to retain the Champions League trophy. They have a wonderful defence with Varane and Pepe at the centre. Ramos has replaced Modric in the midfield and showed a stunning performance in his new role. The other three in the middle are also in great form and the attacking duo were responsible for their advance to semis. The man in goal will be the legendary Casillas.

Definetly the talking point will be: former player of Juventus and Real's current coach Ancelotti, and how Juventus will resist Real Madrid.

Like I mentioned before, Juventus host Real Madrid on 5 May at Turin and Barcelona host Bayern Munchen on May 6 at Camp Nou for the first leg. 

El Clasico: Player-by-Player fact.

With El Clasico up on grabs this Sunday, I take a look at each player who may make the starting XI at Camp Nou.

GOALKEEPERS

        Iker Casillas/ Keylor Navas                                                      Claudio Bravo

The department that causes chaos in the dressing room for Los Blancos' may be goalkeeping. Though Real Madrid have two of world's best in the position, the choice of one has affected the other. Casillas has been poor throughout the season and never really got the hang of his performance in recent years. Keylor, on the other side, just got five appearances so far, though he was chosen the best goalkeeper last term and produced a memorable performance in the World Cup. The selection of goalkeepers will surely be a test for Ancelotti.

Meanwhile, Claudio Bravo is the goalkeeper with the most clean sheets in Europe and is going through his best part of life. Ter Stegen had not caused any problems for Chilean and the German in turn was given the duty in Cup competitions. Luis Enrique wouldn't be so concerned about the man to start at goal ahead of El Clasico.

DEFENDERS

                Daniel Carvajal                                                                   Dani Alves

Daniel Carvajal has played a significant part in Real Madrid's performance this season. The young right-back has turned from the best Bundesliga right-back to Real Madrid's wing back. He is known for his efficiency in passing and stands as a supporter for Gareth Bale. Often takes up his position at the right wing and plays important role in Real Madrid's goals. Carvajal also returns to his own D when in times of need and is also one of best in his position. Surely, he must start at the right flank against Barcelona.

Dani Alves remains the right back option for Barcelona this whole season and is expected to start in Clasico. Though he is one of finest in his position, Alves has produced a number of chaos in the dressing room and isn't in good terms with the rest of squad and club. His agent has reported that Alves may leave Barca this summer. However, Dani Alves is good both in attacking and defending. Like Carvajal, Alves also acts as a wing back for Luis Enrique. As it is, Dani Alves won't be surprised by taking the bench against Madrid and instead start at the right defense.

                     Pepe/Varane                                                                  Jeremy Mathieu

One of the two centre-backs may be either Frenchman Varane or Portuguese Pepe. Both of them deserve a chance in starting lineup though Pepe has more chances than his compatriot. Varane would be better in order to stop in-form Messi and has the ability to track and chase the opposition. Meanwhile, Pepe is a better defender with more experience and stands as a helping hand for fellow centre back Sergio Ramos. His famous ability to disallow opponents to take control of his possession would be a good motive against mighty Barcelona.

Since Vermalean was injured long back, Jeremy Mathieu has turned into a permanent starter for Luis Enrique. He has turned into a fantastic centre-back then, and is the reason Gerard Pique is allowed to attack. Stands as the last man in defense and is known for his aerial abilities. Mathieu is also instrumental in clearing air balls during corners and free kicks. Though he didn't start last time, Mathieu may start at the back this Sunday if Mascherano plays at defensive mid.


                             Sergio Ramos                                                               Gerard Pique

Real Madrid's Sergio Ramos is the greatest defender for the Whites' for the past few years. Currently the world's best, Ramos is not only a defender, but also a warrior and a spirit for the side. His absence coincided with Real Madrid's worst performance in the season. Being highly influential in Real's victories, Ramos is famous for his aerial abilities and his goal scoring record. He is also excellent in terms of defending and has a good speed and dribbling ability. Without doubt, Ancelotti will make him play the whole game at New Camp.

Took over Barca's control of defense after Puyol retired back in 2013. Currently in good form, Pique would start against Real Madrid alongside Mascherano or Mathieu. He is also good in goal scoring and defending. Unlike Ramos, Pique hasn't had good luck in recent meetings. He was often poor against Madrid for the past few meetings and got dribbled down by Cristiano, Bale and Benzema. Though his performance against Champions League holders is bad, Gerard Pique will still be in starting XI against Carlo Ancelotti's men.


                   Marcelo Junior                                                                 Jordi Alba

Perhaps, he and Alaba remains the finest left back today. A perfect winger. Marcelo cannot be replaced by anyone in Real Madrid and Brazil. The Brazilian is a major influence on Cristiano Ronaldo and also supports the Portugese. Also a major star in Real's attack. When on defense, Marcelo is great and can threaten Messi and Neymar during the game. In the past years, Carlo Ancelotti hasn't benched Marcelo in high clashes.

Jordi Alba is the second best in La Liga and is a major influence on MSN. Links up well with the others in the squad and is a better defender than Marcelo. The rising popularity of the young Spaniard means that a bright future seeks Jordi Alba. Like Marcelo, Luis Enrique will start Jordi Alba at the left flank.

MIDFIELDERS

               Lucas Silva/Francisco Isco                                                   Javier Mascherano

It may seem impossible to drop Isco against the Catalans, but it is also not possible to drop Lucas Silva. Isco may provide an extra attack but a stabled defence is more important for Real Madrid than attack. For that case, Lucas Silva must start. But Isco is the best player for Real this year. So, dropping him would cause chaos in the dressing rom and media. As for it is, Isco is the favourite to start, but Lucas Silva must atleast be given a few minutes by Ancelotti.

The best centre-back and best defensive midfielder in Barcelona is Javier Mascherano. Moreover, he is also paradoxically their captain. The fellow Argentine, whose heroics led Argentina to World Cup finals, made headlines with his performance. He acts as the common link between the defense and attack. Most probably, would be starting at the midfield this El Clasico.

                       Toni Kroos                                                    Ivan Rakitic/Sergio Busquets

Bought from Bayern Munich this summer, Toni Kroos has turned an attacking masterclass to a centre midfielder. Fantastic when on ball and one of the biggest asset in the game. He is also energetic throughout a match and never shy of having one or two shots of his own. Never responsible for losses and an efficient air ball producer. Ancelotti would not drop Toni Kroos in such an important clash.

The Croatian is a significant player in the squad and is hitting his peak this month. Scored the winner against City with a chip last game and produced a highly satisfactory performance against former. But Sergio Busquets may have the last laugh. Always a starter for Barcelona in the past few seasons, Busquets has a lion's share of moments in the Clasico than Rakitic. Both of them helps the defence and Rakitic is instrumental for Suarez. With current form, Rakitic is the favourite to feature in tip-top clash.

                         
                  Luka Modric                                                                Xavi/Andres Iniesta

Perhaps, the most missed player of the season is back for God's sake. Luka Modric can't be defined like others. Best midfielder in the squad, most efficient producer of passes, marvelous retainer of possession, good defending, excellent ball control etc. are some of Luka's qualities. His arrival has stopped the recent struggle for form from the team and moreover, acts as the backbone of the squad. The control of midfield lies between Modric. He is also the second player with most accuracy and has the highest retain control (around 5 times in 90 minutes). Couldn't imagine El Clasico without him.

The best trio of all time is Xavi, Iniesta and Messi. There was a time at which this trio could be stopped only by God. Though Messi is still class, Xavi and Iniesta has been fighting for chance. Xavi has been great in the league and Iniesta still remains their backbone. Don't know who is going to start at Camp Nou, maybe Enrique would consider both of them in the starting XI. The presence of Xavi or Iniesta or both could make El Clasico tough for Real to handle.

ATTACKERS

                          Gareth Bale                                                               Neymar Junior

Gareth Bale must tie up his laces if he wants to stop the recent criticism. The Welshman was excellent at the start of the season, but an injury at mid-October affected him. He couldn't take up part in the first Clasico and then never hit his peak. However, Modric's return resulted in his improvement as he hammered two goals into the net last match. Bale is known for his sheer pace and power. The performance against Levante meant that Gareth Bale has finally returned to form and Ancelotti will give him a chance.

Neymar Junior has transformed from a young talent to a Balon d'Or contender. He can never never be called a future star because he is already performing more than his expectations at the moment. He links up with fellow star Messi and has scored 17 goals in the league. Has an excellent finishing ability and causes problems when on ball. Neymar must be watched carefully as he is good enough to change the course of a game.

                     Karim Benzema                                                            Luis Suarez

Karim Benzema was fantastic in the last four El Clasicos. The Frenchman had a spectacular start to the season and was awarded 'Player of October and November' by Real Madrid CF. However, the New Year never really saw the best of Benzema. His form was dropped down but he still had one or two memorable games this year. Was great last match and had the best chance of the game to score. However, Benzema's recent form against Barcelona must not be underestimated. There is still a lot of hope in the Frenchman.

Was bought for 85 million euros this summer, but had his debut against Real Madrid after serving a four month ban. Suarez was great during his debut and assisted for Neymar's goal. Though he never hit his peak under Luis Enrique, Suarez still settled in the first team. Was lame at the start of New Year but began to breathe then. The Uruguayan returned back to England against Manchester City and thrashed them by scoring both the goals in 2-1 win. Suarez, then had a fantastic month and also hit the woodwork in his last match. His skill, passing and unpredictable finishing must be a great asset for Luis Enrique when they host Real Madrid.

               Cristiano Ronaldo                                                               Lionel Messi

Experienced the best start of the season in his 11-year old career and scored 20 goals with 13 Liga Matches. That included 12 goals in 5 matches and three hattricks. However, he never recovered to his best since January. After being crowned World Player of The Year, Ronaldo just scored 9 goals in this year. Though he has a spectacular month going on, still being criticized for lack of goals. But he can never be benched because you don't know when he shows his class.

Lionel Messi is back. The player that would be watched this Clasico will be the Argentine. He is going through a fantastic time, scoring 20 goals in the year and 12 assists. Morever, very efficient in dribbling and passing. Messi seems almost unstoppable. He is currently 2 goals ahead of Ronaldo in Golden Shoe race. Surely, Real Madrid defenders must watch out or they will be thrashed by the Argentine.      

      

     

  

Real Madrid-Schalke 04 Match Preview: Modric returns to rescue Ancelotti.

 

Sergio Ramos and Luka Modric returns against Schalke.

Struggling BBC hopes to find form with their arrival.

Real Madrid would look to put back their worst week behind with a conscious performance against Schalke 04.

Real Madrid have gone through a difficult week with a poor result at home against Villareal and defeat in hands of Athletic Bilbao. The two results meant Barca top the table for the first time since October and Cristiano Ronaldo been caught by Messi in Golden Shoe race.

With Luka Modric and Ramos returning, Real Madrid would look back to emulate their months of September to December. Real registered 13 consecutive wins with Luka Modric. 

With his absence, Madrid won 17, lost 4 and drew 2. This also includes defeats against Atletico twice (2-0, 4-0) and against Valencia, Villareal and Bilbao. Madrid also exited from cup competition losing 4-2 on aggregate.

Meanwhile, the result was very impressive with Modric and Real was efficient in passing and scoring. Cristiano scored around 20 goals including two hattricks and a super hattrick with Modric. Benzema was chosen Player of October by Real Madrid and was instrumental during November.

Madrid created a lot of chances with Modric than without him. His return would surely be a boost for the entire squad and especially for Ronaldo, Bale and Benzema.

Meanwhile, Ramos has been the spirit of Los Blancos. Real seemed less energetic without him.

Ramos was an efficient skipper, a great defender and always a savior for Madrid. 

The return of two giants must surely make a difference when they meet Schalke.

Real Madrid play against Schalke after holding a 2-0 lead in the first leg and with a good home record against German oppositions (W22 D4 L2). The match also the first UCL at home since November against Ludogorets Razgrad.

The match is scheduled to start at 20:45 CET at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu.    

Atletico Bilbao-Real Madrid Preview: To San Memes before Clasico

  

Ancelotti would look to thrash as in the last meeting between the two.

Its just three matches before Barca showdown.

Real Madrid would look to stay five points ahead in the race, though Barca still have a game in hand, with a victory against the Basque's.

Real Madrid thrashed Atletico Bilbao in their last meeting with Cristiano Ronaldo netting a hattrick.

A similar performance can be expected but the circumstances weren't the same, last time they met. The game would be one of the three which Madrid would play before El Clasico.

Real Madrid had a poor start to this tough month with a lame draw against Villareal at home.

Atletico Bilbao are currently at a good stand after reaching the Copa del Rey final where they will meet Luis Enrique's Barcelona.

Earlier, Ancelotti exclaimed that Ronaldo would be his first choice free-kick taker despite failing in 51 atttempts. The last time they two met at Bilbao, Real Madrid were held 1-1 after Ronaldo was sent off.

Real Madrid would possibly lineup in their custom 4-3-3 or 4-4-2 with Casillas, Marcelo, Carvajal, Varane and Pepe all expected to be the backline.

Kroos, Isco and Lucas Silva will be the possible midfield trio and Ronaldo, Bale, Benzema the attacking option.

The game is set to be the first after Real celebrated their 113th anniversary last night.

The match is scheduled to start at 18:00 CET at San Memes, Bilbao.  

 

Ronaldo put down one of his greatest performance this season despite muted result against Villareal

  

Real Madrid showed poor performance against Villareal but Ronaldo not to blame.

If anyone who actually deserved credit, it might be Cristiano.

MADRID- Real Madrid seemed to be awful for a night when they had 18 shots overall. Goal.com rated Ronaldo as one who was ran out of ideas.

But actually he was the one who really held the nerves for Real. 

A team consisting of Bale, Benzema, Isco and Kroos were all muted in the Yellow Submarine. But Ronaldo produced runs and attacks from almost everywhere in the opposition's half.

A good lengthy run from the centre and a number of step-over-rolls and elastico's and even Ronaldo chops: all the said were delighted in his performance. This was something we missed from Ronaldo this whole season.

Being unselfish was good to a point, but the best striker of a team scoring is better than rather assisting.

The Ronaldo we saw 2012-2014 has changed a lot from what we saw in 2014-15 season.

The Ronaldo we saw during his golden years was like a devil who hit long ranges, and trembled the defence.

Comparing his performance to last night, he was similar to what he was at his golden years. He dispossessed just once in the game and made great runs in the field and with 13 shots. 7 of his shots were tested by Sergio Ascenjo.

He also had 9 successful dribbles against Villareal and a flying header which resulted in Ascenjo's finest saves of his career.

The striker also pulled Ascenjo to 3 excellent saves which couldn't have been hit anymore better.

Cristiano also had great speed and vision which he missed this whole season last night. He tucked one for Bale, who wasted a goal scoring opportunity.

After all, it isn't Ronaldo's blame for draw and it was Sergio Ascenjo's heroics moreover to be congratulated.      

"I ask Bale to score and get assists" - Ancelotti

  

"Running is no problem for Bale".

The Italian has shut reporter's mouth after questioning Bale's form this season.

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti hit back at reporters after the Italian was asked on Bale.

The ex-PSG coach  said that Bale knows to "run" and he didn't want to explain more to the Welshman. Bale came to the Spanish capital last season for a record 100-million and Ancelotti said that Bale knows how important it is to work hard and to get a starting place in XI.

Isco is currently in starting XI for Bale. And the Spaniard has been in impressive form this season. However, Ancelotti has said that he wants goals and assists from Bale and also said that rotation would take place in the squad.

"I ask Bale to score and get assists and do what he did last year. Running is no problem for Bale. I dont have to tell him like others. They knew it".

"If someone has to be left out to give up a place for Bale, I'll tell him it's nothing definitive. Rotation is normal at this time.Whoever doesnt play tomorrow, will play next game."

Ancelotti also expressed that his side wont change plans against Rayo. He also said that he just don't like such teams.

"I don't like teams that change their ideas against some opponents. Rayo are a great example of Spanish football," he added.

"I'm worried that there are too many compliments. That means that, when things aren't going well, there will be too much criticism. The season is very long."

'Cristiano Ronaldo or a German will win Balon d'Or'.

  

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has tipped his striker or a German player ahead of Argentine Lionel Messi for Balon d'Or.

The ex-AC Milan player has said that Cristiano Ronaldo or any of the 6 Germans will win the most prestigious individual honor this year.

Ancelotti  has revealed that he won't see Lionel Messi winning the award ahead of others. The Argentine and Ronaldo have won last seven Balon d'ors and Ancelotti believes this year Messi won't win them.

"Ronaldo has done everything to win it. Then there could be Germany players because they won the World Cup. I don't see other players who can be on the list," he told a press conference.

Ancelotti then responded to Ronaldo's comments on equalling late Di Stefano.

"Ronaldo believes he is Di Stefano's heir. He has this image, it's a very great compliment. everyone knows what he meant, and to have this image gives him great belief for the future. He deserves it."

Ancelotti: Bale deserves to play

  

The Welshman will still be a part of starting XI according to his trainer.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is set to choose Bale in starting XI ahead of Isco and James.

Gareth Bale will be one of the best players in the squad and will play in the starting XI instead of being the bench for rest of 2014-2015 insists the Italian.

The Welshman is yet to adapt to life at the Spanish capital although he had a lot of memorable moments in his last one and a half years. However, the stunning form of Francisco Roman Alarcon (Isco) has been a stback for the 25-year-old.

But his coach still believes Bale stand a chance in the squad.

"Isco is playing well and I hope he does so till this season. He is also good with Bale. They have already played together. Bale deserves to play. He is important  and plays well".

When asked about LFP awards, Ancelotti answered that he won't be surprised if Cristiano, Modric and Ramos won them. He also said that they deserved them most.

Ancelotti would also like to rest Bale ahead of Granada match.

'Many forgot Bale scored in Copa del Rey and Champions League finals'

  

Ancelotti: Bale is important

The former AC Milan boss wants Gareth Bale and slammed those who wanted James and Isco ahead of the Welshman.

Real Madrid's Champions League winning coach Carlo Ancelotti hit back against the media who wrote down the chances of Bale comeback into the starting XI ahead of Isco and James.

The ex-Juventus star has stressed the importance of the number 11 and also reminded them what would have happened if Bale hadn't played in the finals of the two trophies which Madrid had in their cabinet last season.

The report actually came when Ancelotti was said that Isco and James would make the winger on the bench.

Both of them have been in tremendous form which is surely a setback for injured Bale.

However, the Italian reponded in this way:

It seems as many have forgotten what Bale did in the two finals last year. He is equally as important as Isco and James.

Gareth Bale was injured during a training session before the match against Levante. However, the return date is yet to be revealed. 

Ancelotti: Isco is well-loved by fans

  

The Italian has praised the attitude of fans towards the young Spaniard and loves the way he plays.

"He is in good form" according to Carlo Ancelotti.

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti expressed Isco has a fan-favourite and likened his recent performances.

The midfielder in his best form of life and is well focused according to his manager.

"Isco is on good form and he is well-loved by the fans. He is really focused, covers lots of ground and is currently on his best form since he got here. 

Ancelotti also wants to maintain the current of his team.

Isco has been influential in all of the games he have played and also grabbed an a sub-assist after his strike's rebound was met by Marcelo against Cornella.