Real Madrid’s Vinicius praises Messi ahead of Clasicos

TIL Desk Sports/ Real Madrid’s Brazilian forward Vinicius Jr praised Barcelona’s Argentine Lionel Messi as an exceptional player, but not a figure to be afraid of. “He (Messi) is an incredible player, but he scares no one. We are ready to face him,” the 18-year-old said.

The two Spanish clubs are to play each other twice within a week, starting with the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final on Wednesday at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, where Real Madrid is the host. The second clash is in La Liga, scheduled for Saturday, also at Madrid’s home ground.

The teams are tied 1-1 after the first leg. “The Clasico is always a beautiful game, always the best game to play. We are prepared for what is coming and to win. They are two important games and we have them within a week,” he said.

Vinicius said Real Madrid had the best players in the world, adding they were capable of defeating their arch-rival Barcelona and reach the Spanish cup final.