"We are back to being the old Real Madrid. If we keep playing like this then I'm sure we'll win something," said Zinedine Zidane, in the wake of beating Real Betis in the Spanish Cup on Wednesday.

The improved form of Zidane, and also England captain David Beckham, since the winter break has been instrumental in Real recapturing the flare that seemed to desert them shortly after the start of the season.

Raul Gonzalez and Ronaldo are still injured so the dilemma of coach Juan Ramon Lopez Caro of how to incorporate the two superstars into Real's winning formula remains several weeks away.

However, Lopez Caro may make two changes to the starting lineup that beat Sevilla 3-1 last weekend.

Spanish international Ivan Helguera could return to the centre of the defence in place of Alvaro Mejia and Lopez Caro also has to decide what to do about Julio Baptista, who has struggled since his return from injury.

Antonio Cassano, who made his first start against Betis since signing from Serie A side Roma earlier this month, and Roberto Soldado have both made good cases to be chosen ahead of the under-performing Brazilian striker.

Barcelona lead the league with 49 points from 20 games and have a streak of their own to preserve at Real Mallorca on Sunday, having won their last 13 league games.

The Catalan club have edged close to Madrid's league record of 15 consecutive victories, from the 1960-61 season when legends Alfredo Di Stefano and Ferenc Puskas graced their side.

Frank Rijkaard rested several of his regular starters for the Cup match against Real Zaragoza on Thursday but Barca will be back to full strength for their short trip across the Mediterranean to face Mallorca, who are just one place above the relegation zone.

Valencia, champions twice in the last four years, moved up to second last weekend after their 2-0 win at Betis, which extended their unbeaten run in the league to nine games although they are still 10 points adrift of Barca.

They play host to Real Zaragoza on Sunday but Valencia will be without captain and midfielder David Albelda, who is suspended.

After surprising every one over the first half of the season, third-placed Osasuna have stumbled and lost their last two games but the Pamplona-based side will be looking to recover their poise at home to Betis on Saturday.