Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso admits they can't afford to lose the El Clasico against Barcelona.

Victories in their last four competitive matches, as well as an 8-0 thrashing of Millonarios in the Santiago Bernabeu Trophy last week, means the reigning champions look to be finally hitting their stride.

Madrid midfielder Xabi is now looking for another triumph this weekend, saying: "It would be good to win and bad to lose, that's obvious. We know the (points) disadvantage that we have and we want a victory.

"We know the importance of the game and the significance of El Clasico and we will go there to win."