Barcelona president: Defeat won't affect Real Madrid preparations

Barcelona president Joan Laporta insists the defeat at Real Betis will not have an affect on preparations for the showdown with Real Madrid.

"We must focus on ourselves and take advantage of this moment," said Laporta. "The defeat will not affect the next game against Real Madrid."

"We can use this result as a motivator and I hope the loss will not damage us."

"The players have played a good, vibrant game, but in football you cannot always win."

Asked about the row between Barcelona assistant coach Henk ten Cate and vice-president Sandro Rosell, Laporta added: "The subject has been settled. These comments will not affect the good form of the team."