Real plan unlikely return

Just 2 days after a 6-1 demolition at the hands of Real Zaragoza, Real Madrid are already planning an unlikely comeback in the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final in the Bernabeu.

Goalkeeper Iker Casillas conceded in Thursday's press conference that his side need to go into the half-time break with a three-goal lead to stand any chance of progressing, though was adamant that this is possible, a feeling echoed by new director of football, Benito Floro.

In an interview published on Friday he declared &lsquoturning the 6-1 defeat around is a genuine possibility.'

Meanwhile, Juan Ramon Lopez Caro, who beforehand had won widespread praise for kickstarting Real Madrid's year with seven consecutive victories, was happy to accept the blame for the defeat.

"I am the one who is most at fault as I make the decisions" he declared in a radio interview on Thursday.

Midfielder Guti, currently acting Captain in the absence of Raul, was keen to point out though, that it was the players who let the club down.

"We knew how Zaragoza play and we failed to stop them. The manager put out a strong team with the aim of winning the match."

Barcelona forward Ronaldinho lost his appeal on Thursday to have the red card he received in the Copa del Rel quarter final overturned.

The Brazilian star was sent off towards the end of the first half for a seemingly innocuous tackle on Zaragoza midfielder Cani.

Although it is rumoured Barcelona could now ask the sporting disciplinary committee to overturn the verdict, it is unlikely he will be available for Sunday's top of the table clash with Valencia in the Mestalla.

Top scorer Eto'o has returned from duty with Cameroon in the African Nations Cup to lead the line.

The striker raised a few eyebrows in Thursday's press conference, commenting "my only rival for the Pichichi is myself."

Juliano Belletti is fit again after an achilles problem, though midfielder Deco pulled up with a hamstring problem during training on Thursday that could see him miss out.

Getafe midfielder Fabio Celestini will be out for around a month after a scan revealed a fracture in the leg&hellipAthletic Bilbao President Fernando Lamikiz put himself in a rather small minority, reiterating his belief that Bilbao are the best side in the world&hellipSecretary of State for Sport Jaime Lissavetsky believes Spain are not dependent upon captain Raul, heading into the World Cup this Summer...