Runway leaders Barcelona are 12 points clear of second-placed Real, who still hope to claim their third consecutive league title.

"There are still many matches to play and it's impossible for [Barcelona] to keep up their rhythm," Pepe told Marca.

"We need to be ready to cut into their lead when they lose. No one should dismiss our chances of climbing back into the title race."

Portuguese defender Pepe has been a key member of Real's squad since joining Real from Porto in the summer of 2007.

He is Juande Ramos' preferred choice alongside Fabio Cannavaro in the heart of Real's defense.