Mel: I will find a way to beat Real

Pepe Mel has spoken of his determination to defy the odds and find a way for his Real Betis side to record a home win against Real Madrid.

Only Barcelona and Levante have recorded victories against the Spanish giants in La Liga this season, but Mel is targeting an unlikely conquest in Saturday’s clash.

“I have to succeed in what we propose in a footballing sense. I think it was Hannibal who said: ‘If there is a path through the Alps, I will find it.’ For me, if there is a way to beat Real Madrid, I will find it,” Mel told AS.

Meanwhile, Mel has stated that Monday’s loss to Levante will have no ill effect on his side, who will be motivated for the visit to Madrid.

“The moment that the match against Real Madrid happens is unimportant,” he said. “Only two teams have managed to beat them this year: Barcelona in top form, and the same with Levante.”

The 48-year-old went on to state that Lionel Messi’s five-goal haul against Bayer Leverkusen midweek will only spur Cristiano Ronaldo on.

“So far this year, we’ve seen that when Leo (Messi) has a great game, Cristiano (Ronaldo) always responds, and vice versa. Cristiano alone can destroy us with his speed and hunger for titles,” Mel said.

“But he is not alone. Kaka has improved, [Mesut] Ozil is exceptional, [Gonzalo] Higuain will take his chances.”

Finally, the former Rayo Vallecano man voiced his confidence that the officials will not favour Real Madrid in the contest.

“I don’t believe that (they favour Real Madrid). The referees give a few and take a few. With every team, including Madrid.”

Betis head into the game in 12th place in La Liga, six points clear of the relegation zone.