Reports: Real Madrid players happy to face Barcelona in Copa del Rey semi-finals

What's the rumour?

Real Madrid players are reportedly happy to face Barcelona in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey rather than in the final.

In case you didn't know...

La Blaugrana has been drawn against Los Blancos in the competition's semi-finals and will lock horns in the first leg of the semi-final on February 6 at the Camp Nou.

The Catalan giants registered a phenomenal comeback to thrash Sevilla 6-1 on Wednesday, securing a last-four spot for the ninth consecutive year.

Real Madrid on the other hand, extended their eleven games unbeaten run in all competitions after a 3-1 win over Girona on Thursday.

Real Madrid director, Emilio Butragueno, spoke about the draw to the club's official website saying,

"It's going to be a great tie. There's nothing like playing in a Clasico. It's thrilling and more so if you have the fortune to play for a final. We are talking about two teams that have a lot of resources and extraordinary players. We expect two intense and even games. We trust our players and we will see what happens."

The heart of the matter

Considering the fact that their last Clasico meeting ended with Real Madrid getting thrashed by their Catalan rivals 5-1, one may assume that the Madrid outfit would not be too keen on meeting them once again.

However, it appears the players are happier to face Barcelona in the semi-finals rather than the finals.

According to a report in AS, Santiago Solari's men believe their chances of beating Barcelona are higher over two legs.

The report added that with support from fans, especially in the second leg at the Bernabeu, they have a decent chance of getting through the semi-finals.

What's next?

The two rivals will first lock horns on February 6 at the Camp Nou, and then on February 27 at the Santiago Bernabeu.