Xavi dismayed by off-pitch distractions

BARCELONA midfielder Xavi has hit out at Real Madrid’s recent conduct as the heated build-up continues ahead of the second leg of their Champions league semi-final tie at the Nou Camp.

Tonight’s match is the fourth meeting between the Spanish rivals in 18 days and follows last Wednesday’s bad-tempered clash at the Bernabeu, which Barca won 2-0 thanks to a brilliant Lionel Messi brace.

Madrid coach Jose Mourinho and Barca boss Pep Guardiola were involved in a war of words prior to that match and tempers subsequently frayed on the pitch.