Today’s E-paper

Clasico won't decide title: Xavi

06 October,2012 08:21 AM IST | | AFP

Barcelona and Spain star Xavi doesn't believe that a victory in Sunday's showdown with arch-rivals Real Madrid at the Nou Camp would eliminate Jose Mourinho's side from title contention but acknowledged it would put Barca a step closer to regaining the league crown.

"To win would be an important step, but it would not put an end to la Liga. Whatever happens Sunday, there will still be a long way to go," Xavi said yesterday. A win for Barcelona would see them move 11 points ahead of Madrid.

Xavi

The Blaugrana will be without captain Carles Puyol after the defender dislocated his elbow during the club's 2-0 win over Benfica in the Champions League on Tuesday, while the status of Puyol's defensive partner Gerard Pique, who is struggling with a left foot injury, is also a concern for Tito Vilanova's men.u00a0

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Sports Barcelona Spain Xavi Real Madrid Nou Camp Jose Mourinho