Jose Mourinho has tried to lift his Real Madrid team after they lost El Clasico 3-1 to Barcelona.

 

Much was at stake before the clash as had Real Madrid won then they would have held a six-point lead over Barcelona with a game in hand.

 

But the Blaugrana have levelled the playing field, although Los Blancos can still gain a three-point advantage should they win their extra match.

 

Real Madrid had dramatically taken the lead in the very first minute of the game through Karim Benzema, but Alexis Sanchez drilled home an equaliser for Barcelona after 30 minutes.

 

At the break the teams were level at 1-1, but after Barcelona pulled ahead, first as Xavi hit a shot which deflected off Marcelo and went in and then via a Cesc Fabregas diving header.

 

Real Madrid could have changed the game however, as Cristiano Ronaldo missed chances at 2-1 and 1-0.

 

Mourinho though is trying to stay positive, while understanding that his troops are feeling down.

 

"The dressing room is sad and quiet", said the Real Madrid boss.

 

"I said before the game that we were very balanced emotionally, this wouldn’t change with a win and we’d be at six-points [ahead] with just one defeat."

 

Mourinho tried to pick up his players though, explaining they could still be top at the winter break.

 

"But we are balanced and on equal points. We have a game to play, and if we don’t lose then we’ll be top at Christmas."

 

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