Top Match Round-up: Title Race Now Back On in La Liga
Barcelona’s dip in form has re-opened the La Liga title race after it seemed over as the title-challenging Madrid duo look to capitalise on their recent outings.
Getafe vs Real Madrid – Saturday, 15.00 KO
A low key Madrid derby to say the least, Getafe need points at this stage of the season, with the Azulones currently two points off safety. However, it's a daunting proposition to overcome Real Madrid, whose recent run of form has propelled them back into the title race. Away from home, Los Blancos’ form has been far from satisfactory, though their Clasico win over Barcelona away from home last time will boost morale in Saturday’s early kick off in Spain.
Las Palmas vs Sporting Gijon – Saturday, 17.15 KO
Las Palmas have made a superb return to La Liga, with the hosts now 11 points clear of the relegation zone and can effectively prepare for next term in Spain’s top tier. Sporting Gijon, meanwhile, sit two points off safety and have struggled away from home this season, winning just three times on 16 attempts and while Las Palmas have been inconsistent at home of late, they have what it takes to inflict further damage on the visitors this weekend having won six of their last seven league games.
Atletico Madrid vs Granada – Sunday, 17.15 KO
Atletico Madrid are now just three points behind Barcelona and confidence will be high having knocked the Blaugrana out of the Champions League in midweek. Their home success is built on a solid foundation in La Liga, with Atletico shipping just seven league goals at the Calderon this season, fewer than any other team. Granada will hope to take a large step to safety on Sunday, but will face an uphill struggle to overcome Atletico in Madrid.
Rayo Vallecano vs Villarreal – Sunday, 17.15 KO
Villarreal are in the driving seat to secure a top-four finish in La Liga, with the Yellow Submarines eight points clear of Celta Vigo in fifth. They are unlikely to challenge Real Madrid in third, so it’s merely a case of maintaining their good form between now and the end of the season to secure Champions League football.
Barcelona vs Valencia – Sunday, 19.30 KO
Barcelona’s recent poor form has allowed for Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid to close the gap at the top of La Liga with an entertaining end to the campaign now on the cards. The Blaugrana have the extra pressure of playing last on Sunday, which could affect their performance should both Madrid sides win. However, against a disappointing Valencia outfit, this should be a home victory, particularly with Barcelona winning five of their last six home meetings with Los Che including a 7-0 trouncing in the Copa Del Rey back in February.
