Iker Casillas believes that a result for Los Merengues this weekend will knock the confidence out of rivals Barcelona.

However, the Real Madrid goalkeeper is wary of the threat posed by Pep Guardiola's side who will be looking to bounce back from dropping points against Athletic Bilbao and regain top spot in La Liga.

Speaking to AS Casillas said "They beat Inter and are motivated because it is a key week for them, especially after a draw against Bilbao. And what better way to end the week by beating Real Madrid?

"But we go with the idea of taking that confidence from [Pep] Guardiola's men.

"The difference is minimal, just a point and there is still much ahead in the league. But they can be encouraged knowing that if they win can go two points in front of us."

Casillas also insisted that his team are league leaders on merit and stated that a draw would not be a bad outcome for his team.

"A draw would not be bad given the circumstances. Being where we are and play like we're playing, we are league leaders, so we have to do something right," he stated.