Yuku free message boards

I can co-sign that assessment, Boys Noize. The Clasico certainly brings out both the best and worst from the Spanish clubs. On that note, I can't say enough about La Masia. Their academy has produced countless world-class footballers.

However, once again I can't agree with nawlinsjunkie. It's been made clear that I'm a Madrid fan but I always call it like I see it. First, Pepe's actions are honestly appalling at times. I can't even defend his rash behavior. The Portuguese international is such a physical presence and solid defender, but he plays with his head too much and still has difficulty quelling his temper. Also, Lass should have been sent off for second yellow because of that cynical challenge on Messi before half. On the flip side, Ramos' sending off was far too harsh from the referee. Now back to your initial comment about diving, I do not find your assertion to be true, that Barca simply dives because the ref "ignores blatant fouls and rash tackles." The referee for this past Wednesday's match was bad both ways, not for one club in particular. In addition, there's a major difference between playing physical and playing dirty. I've said this before, Mourinho's game-plan has been clear. He's instructed the Madrid players to apply immense pressure on the ball and also put a body on key Catalan players like Messi. The purpose? To disrupt Barca's free-flowing rhythm and passing. Mourinho's tactics have worked to somewhat limit Messi's overall influence on the match. For the most part Pepe and Lass have done a brilliant job performing physically in the midfield to break up Barcelona's possession. With that being said, Pepe, Lass, and Coentrao (less than the other two Madrid players) do cross the line into overly physical challenges that could be judged cynical. I don't believe that to be Mourinho's intent or Madrid's purpose to harm/injure Guardiola's men. Matter of fact, I firmly believe Pep has been wise enough to protect his players by calling for them to "sell" calls and even dive at times to make the referee aware of Madrid's physical play.  

PSG should end up with both Alex and Thiago Motta.