Raul was delighted with his hat-trick in Real Madrid's victory at Sevilla last night. The Real captain smiled: "It is true that I have reason to leave Seville happy, because achieving a hat-trick is not something usual. However, I know that this is the culmination of the collective work of the team.

"The comeback? This is the history of Real Madrid, we have the shield on the jersey ... It is worn with pride by both the coaches and the players, everyone. We continue to honor this shirt."

On facing Barcelona this weekend, Raul added: "They are the leaders and playing better football. It will be a difficult, but hopefully with a great atmosphere in the Bernabeu we can beat them and stay alive in the fight for the title."