Pique: Real clash too tight to call

Barcelona defender Gerard Pique believes that are no favourites whenever his side and Real Madrid meet.

The two arch-rivals are set to clash next week’s Copa del Rey quarter-final, and Pique believes that such encounters are too tight to call.

“There are no favourites between Barca and Real Madrid,” the 24-year-old told El Larguero. “These matches have a lot of tension, where you get physically and mentally exhausted.”

“Whoever loses is a little diminished, but for now we have to play Real Betis in the league, and then prepare for the big match.”

Pique also pledged a message of support to Andreu Fontas, who suffered a ligament injury during his side’s 2-1 victory over Osasuna in Thursday’s Copa del Rey second leg.

“I was very worried. We have to try to help and move forward because he is a very strong player,” Pique said.

Real Madrid host Barcelona in the Spanish capital on Wednesday, before the two sides meet at Camp Nou a week later.