New Delhi [India], Ahead of the much-awaited match between Real Madrid and Barcelona in La Liga on Monday, Los Blancos head coach Carlos Ancelotti said it will be a "hard-fought" match between the two Spanish giants. In the pre-match press conference, Ancelotti said that Barcelona is a "highly competitive opponent" who has performed brilliantly in recent times. "If we manage to win it, we will be within striking distance of La Liga. Playing highly competitive rivals who have performed brilliantly in recent games, it will be a tough and equal Clasico as always, it is a great opportunity to get closer to the La Liga title, but we know how difficult it is. Ancelotti was quoted by Real Madrid's website as saying that the Italian head coach said that Real Madrid's players have recovered after their last match against Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League (UCL). I recovered well but there are players who will need an extra day like Mendy.They will all be in the team, we have not had any real problems and we will try to prepare the best possible team tomorrow. Mendy was still a little tired today so we decided to give him extra rest," he said. Speaking about Fede Valverde's performances, Ancelotti said the Uruguayan midfielder has been "consistent" and has Has performed "remarkably" in the season. Was named 'Player of the Match' against City. In Real's previous match against City "It is difficult to say where he can improve. He is consistent and he is always remarkable.He helps the team a lot and is always a big factor in getting him on the field. If I play him as a winger, he saves, if I play him in the center of the park, he saves, if I play him up top, he gets goals and assists. That's why he is irreplaceable for me," he added, adding that Real Madrid are coming into this match after defeating City on penalties in the UCL quarterfinal match. With the win against City, Los Blancos have secured their place in the semi-finals of the tournament. In La Liga, Carlo Ancelotti's side are on top of the table with 7 points after winning 24 out of 31 matches.If Real manages to get three points against the Blaugranas, they will be one step closer to winning La Liga for the 36th time. Meanwhile, Barcelona are second in the table with 70 points after securing 21 wins in 31 matches.