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"Madridth and Barcelona - two irreconcilable enemies, whose five matches last season were not without controversies and scandalous statements. On Sunday, these clubs will again face off in the opening match of the new season for the Spanish Super Cup.
The first match will take place in Madrid, and the return match will be held in Barcelona on August 17th. Security officials treat these meetings as high-risk, so there will be more order guards than usual.
Last season, "Barcelona" triumphed again in the Spanish championship and eliminated "Real" in the Champions League semi-finals. However, the capital team got a little revenge in the King's Cup final, where they defeated the Catalans. Up to now, the only goal scored against "Barca" was by the brightest "Real" star Cristiano Ronaldo.
"Of course, we will try to make this year very successful," said the Portuguese. "I do not set myself the goal of scoring more than last season. I just want to play well and win trophies - that's why we work hard."
If Jose Mourinho can probably avoid major headaches regarding the choice of the starting lineup, his colleague Pep Guardiola has something to think about.
The main attacking organizer Xavi is most likely not to take to the field due to injury, while defender Gerard Pique and midfielder Sergio Busquets, representing the Spanish national team, have also been injured. However, it is likely that at least the first one will be able to play.
Xavi's place will most likely be taken by Spanish youth team star Thiago Alcantara, and Pique could be replaced by versatile defender Javier Mascherano, who is used to playing defense sometimes.
"I have a lot of experience in this position, so I feel completely calm. I just want to win the Super Cup because it would set a good tone for the season," said Mascherano.
Another alternative for this position is the Frenchman Eric Abidal, who has recovered from the tumor removal surgery performed in the spring.
Probably the fact that "Barcelona" takes the upcoming match very seriously is illustrated by the fact that the team will arrive in Madrid on Saturday, although they usually only travel on match day.
Video introduction to the match:"
