Real, Depor Rev Up For Showdown

All parties will be aware of the stakes when first place Real Madrid host determined chasers Deportivo la Coruña on the weekend.

"The championship starts here… every game could decide who wins the title," insisted Merengue boss Vicente del Bosque.

Real hold a 48-match domestic unbeaten streak at the Bernabéu, but the Galicians played rude guests last year to claim the Copa del Rey title and ruin centenary celebrations.

Said La Liga top scorer Roy Makaay, "We are more motivated than ever as a victory will take us level with Real at the top.”