Real Madrid defender Christoph Metzelder insists their top of the table clash with Barcelona is no title decider.

Manuel Pellegrini's team secured their 12th successive win in La Liga on Sunday - 2-0 at Racing Santander - to ensure the will head into Saturday's 'Clasico' on top of the standings on goal difference from Barca with eight games remaining.

"We had to win no matter what," Metzelder said on realmadrid.com.

"The fact that we didn't concede any goals and that we are leaders again is good news.

"Both Barcelona and Real Madrid are winning all their matches, so I am sure next week's game will be crucial.

"However, there are still other difficult matches to be played, meaning that Saturday's will not decide who wins La Liga."