Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema is ready to start tonight's El Clasico at Barcelona.

The French ace is expected to lead the line for Real instead of Gonzalo Higuain, who struck in midweek against FC Zurich.

"I'm not afraid of Barca nor the Nou Camp," said Benzema, defiantly.

"I do not think about losing, only of getting the three points."

On Lionel Messi's absence, Benzema added: "It would be better for us if he did not play. That would be good."