Barcelona vs Rayo Vallecano preview - Alves ready to "fight to the death" - 7M sport

Barcelona vs Rayo Vallecano preview - Alves ready to "fight to the death"



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Posted Tuesday, November 29, 2011 by PA

Barcelona vs Rayo Vallecano preview - Alves ready to

Dani Alves insists Barcelona will "fight to the death" to retain their title after slipping six points behind Primera Division leaders Real Madrid.

The defending league champions suffered a 1-0 defeat away to Getafe on Saturday which allowed Madrid to end the weekend with a significant lead over their rivals following their own win against neighbours Atletico.

Brazil right-back Alves is not unduly concerned, however.

"The players are fairly relaxed," he told reporters. "We know that in our profession there are challenges, and that's exciting and we're fascinated by it.

"Happily, there's still a long way to go, and no cups have been awarded yet. One of the keys to this team is that we don't give up or throw in the towel - never.

"We don't change the way we play because of results. We have a philosophy and if we have to die we'll stick with that philosophy.

"This year we're finding it more difficult away from home, but these are phases. Luckily, it's happening to us now and not at the end of the season. There's time to put things right."

He said: "Real Madrid won't drop many points and we can't make any more mistakes. They have a lead and we have to try and reduce it. We have to concentrate and not make any more mistakes.

"My team-mates will rise to this challenge. Don't let there be any doubt but that this team will fight to the death for everything."

Barca will be boosted by the return of Andres Iniesta and Cesc Fabregas to training after injuries while first-choice defensive partners Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique are set to be reunited at the back.

Rayo Vallecano striker Raul Tamudo seems likely to start up front after coming from the bench to score in Saturday's 2-1 defeat at home to Valencia.

The former Espanyol captain told his club's official website: "We have to go there on Tuesday and try to do a good job and play well.

"I always say it is a special match for all players, to play at that stadium against such a great team."



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