Cesc Fabregas struck what may prove a priceless away goal as holder Barcelona drew 1-1 at depleted rival Real Madrid in an entertaining and closely fought King's Cup semifinal first leg on Wednesday.

Lionel Messi sent Fabregas clear five minutes after halftime at an electric Bernabeu stadium enjoying the second Clasico of the season, and the Spain midfielder finished with ease past Real goalkeeper Diego Lopez.

Barca missed several clear chances to extend its lead before Real centerback Raphael Varane crowned a fine performance by leaping to head home an equalizer from a Mesut Ozil center seven minutes from time.