Pique: Real Madrid had an extra day of rest before Barcelona beat them 5-1

Barcelona secured a crucial LaLiga Santander victory over Sevilla on Saturday, thanks in part to the performance of central defender Gerard Pique.

Immediately after the game, attentions turned to the next challenge: a visit to the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu.

"I'm expecting the same treatment as always, as we're going to Real Madrid's stadium and there's an eternal rivalry," he said.

"First we'll focus on the Copa del Rey match, which will be tough, and then we'll see about the league game."

He was asked about Real Madrid's complaints at having one less day of rest and pointed out that Barcelona had a day's less rest ahead of the 5-1 win in the league back in October, due to playing in the Champions League on the Wednesday after Los Blancos had been in European competition on the Tuesday.

"If I remember correctly, they had one extra day of rest in the first half of the season and we won 5-1," he said.

"They'll be keen to play us and we'll do all we can to reach the final."

Pique was also keen to focus on Saturday's game, in which Sevilla twice took the lead before being pegged back.

"It was a very difficult game, it's always hard to win when we come to the [Estadio Sanchez] Pizjuan," he explained.

"They made things difficult for us, but they were more tired in the second half.

"Leo [Messi] was magnificent and we go home happy."

"We have him, he gives us a lot and we enjoy him.

"We Catalans are pessimists and we think about when we won't have things, but for now we have him, so let's enjoy it."

With the fixtures coming thick and fast, Pique felt that this win was an important one as Barcelona continue to regain their best form.

"We are in a key moment in the season, these are decisive games," Pique said.

"We aren't playing great football, but we're still in every competition.

"We'll try to get to the final and continue doing well in the league.

"It might not seem like it, but we are more alive than ever."