All eyes are on Messi, but nobody is talking about Dembélé
Two Clásicos in four days that feel more akin to NBA play-offs; two matches in which Barcelona will have to battle against the Bernabéu. In my view it's a good thing for Barcelona that they have to score on Wednesday evening. Going to Madrid as favourites has always seemed liked the kind of rashness that only stokes madridista pride - having said that, they don't need much prompting for their pride to kick in.
Stars
Among the stars on display on Wednesday night, the spotlight inevitably falls at the feet of Leo Messi, who will be raring to go after missing the first clash in the league and making a late second-half appearance in the first leg, and on Vinicius, Luis Suárez, Benzema, etc. Not to mention Ballon d'Or winner Modric.
Dembélé
What strikes me, however, is how no one is talking about Dembélé as a player who could prove decisive and could send Barcelona into the final. After La Pulga's stunning hat-trick and one-man demolition of Sevilla at the weekend, everyone eagerly awaits to see if he can pick apart the Madrid defence, but, despite blowing hot and cold and times, the Frenchman has scored some important goals this season. Dembélé doesn't do things in half measures, and, in going under the radar, could be one to watch.