Barcelona are top of the La Liga standings, and are seven points clear of Real Madrid after 23 games played.

It’s yet another El Clasico clash on Thursday night, as both rivals will contest in the Copa del Rey semi-final.

Barcelona won the most recent El Clasico tie 3-1 in the Spanish Supercopa final on January 15.

Ancelotti has urged his side to have courage and personality ahead of Thursday’s El Clasico clash.

Speaking of the Supercopa defeat ahead of Thursday’s Copa del Rey clash, Ancelotti said: “We lacked commitment and decisiveness in the Spanish Super Cup.

“We made individual errors and if we make this kind of mistake again it will hurt us. I don’t think they’ll happen again because it’s a very important game and we’re near to winning what is an important competition for us. We’re going to compete.

“You have to have personality and courage to face a match like this. As always, there is enthusiasm to play this match, it’s always beautiful.

“We’re not far from playing a final. There are many things that allow us to enjoy this moment and try to do our best.”