Xavi: Barça win would not end race

Barcelona and Spain star Xavi has warned that a victory in Sunday's showdown with arch-rivals Real Madrid at the Camp Nou would not eliminate Jose Mourinho's side from title contention. The midfielder did, though, acknowledge that three points would put Barça a step closer to regaining the league crown. "To win would be an important step, but it would not put an end to La Liga," said Xavi. "Whatever happens Sunday, there will still be a long way to go," added the 32-year-old, despite the fact that a Barcelona win would see them move 11 points ahead of Real. To win would be an important step, but it would not put an end to La Liga. Xavi, Barcelona midfielder Barça will be without captain Carles Puyol after the defender dislocated his elbow during the club's 2-0 win over Benfica in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday. The status of Puyol's defensive partner Gerard Pique, who is struggling with a left foot injury, is also a concern for Tito Vilanova's men. "He is doing everything to get back in time. However, he has gone ten days without training and that's difficult. I think right now, he rates his chances of playing at 50 per cent," revealed Xavi. From Fifa