By Tim Stannard

Isco out, but Bale in as Real Madrid takes on Bernabeu in Copa del Rey semifinal clash 

For anyone else playing a game today, then hold beIN SPORTS' drink as a Copa del Rey Clasico is in play - a special bonus edition of the greatest rivalry in club soccer. 

Three weeks ago, the two sides played out a 1-1 draw in the Camp Nou in the first leg of the semifinal to leave the tie finely balanced. And now the two sides meet again for the first of two back-to-back meetings, with the second coming on Saturday in LaLiga. 

The bulk of the pressure is on Real Madrid. The LaLiga title race is looking somewhat closed, with the capital city side a whopping nine points behind Barcelona in the table. Trying to win a fourth Champions League title in a row to save the season is a tall order too. 

Barcelona go into the tie with the opportunity of squishing the grape juice of hope from Madrid for what could be the first time in four days. Eliminate Real Madrid from the Copa and then finally finish off any league title hopes - both times in the Bernabeu - is quite the incentive. 

Isco still in exile but Arthur returns for Barcelona 

Aside from the game, the main topic of conversation for Santiago Solari on Tuesday was whether Gareth Bale was in his good books after his sulky celebration on Sunday. And if there were any major golf tournaments going on to break the Welshman's attention. 

"We are all united," claimed the Real Madrid manager who has included Bale in the squad but omitted Isco. 

Barcelona only need one man to turn up for the game in Madrid today - and that's Lionel Messi, who must still be giddy from scoring his 50th career hat-trick against Sevilla on Saturday. However, Barca has been boosted by the return of Arthur to the midfield after a month out with a calf strain. 

Coverage begins of the big game at 12PM ET with a special edition of Sports Burst from Madrid live on our beIN SPORTS Facebook page. 

Then head to beIN SPORTS at 2PM for the best preview in town, followed by the big game, all the post match reaction and then a special edition of Sports Burst with our Kevin Egan and Ray Hudson where you have the chance to rant and rave to your heart's content. 

And there's more?!

Of course, stay tuned to beIN SPORTS and CONNECT for some fine Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana action including Atletico Mineiro and Corinthians in action.

Sarri to make decision on whether Kepa is a keeper against Spurs 

Unbelievably, there is still other forms of football going on in Europe. 

The Premier League is running day two of a midweek schedule. Day one was all about the relegation battle. Day two is about the title race as well as a juice-filled clash between Chelsea and Tottenham and the big question of whether Kepa was going to be a keeper (in both meanings of the word) for Maurizio Sarri. "A misunderstanding" was the explanation from the Chelsea boss on Tuesday on the League Cup substitution saga. 

The title chase continues at the top. Liverpool currently has a one point lead over Manchester City and is facing the frequently dangerous Watford in Anfield. City hosts the frequently not dangerous West Ham United. 

"I want to smell in the locker room...if we really want to win this title," enthused Pep Guardiola making the mind boggle. 

Meanwhile, Leicester City on Wednesday has unveiled Brendon Rogers as their new manager.