Spain`s La Liga is entering its critical final stage, with only four matches remaining and two main contenders for the title: current leaders FC Barcelona and rivals Real Madrid, who are hoping to mount a late challenge. Barcelona has shown greater consistency throughout the season, but Real Madrid remains firmly in the hunt.
The tension builds towards this week`s monumental clash. On May 11th, these two football giants will face off in Barcelona for the final El Clasico of the La Liga season. This match carries immense weight and could potentially be the decisive factor in determining the 2024-25 champion.
Despite their recent UEFA Champions League quarterfinal exit against Arsenal, Real Madrid is undeniably still one of Europe`s elite teams. Following the acquisition of French star Kylian Mbappe as a free agent in the summer of 2024, Los Blancos boast a star-studded attack, prominently featuring the former PSG striker alongside Brazilian forward Vinicius Jr. However, Barcelona has been statistically superior in front of goal this season, having scored 22 more goals than Real Madrid.
In their latest fixtures on Saturday, Barcelona secured a 2-1 away victory against Real Valladolid, coming from behind with second-half goals from Fermin Lopez and Raphinha. Real Madrid also earned three points with a 3-2 win over Celta Vigo. However, their win was less comfortable, as they nearly squandered a 3-0 lead, coming dangerously close to dropping points that could have significantly hampered their title hopes.
Here is a look at the current La Liga standings:
La Liga Standings
| TEAM | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Barcelona | 34 | 25 | 4 | 5 | 91 | 33 | +58 | 79 |
| 2. Real Madrid | 34 | 23 | 6 | 5 | 69 | 33 | +36 | 75 |
Title Race: Remaining Schedule
1. FC Barcelona — 79 points
- Real Madrid (Home)
- Espanyol (Away)
- Villarreal (Home)
- Athletic Club (Away)
2. Real Madrid — 75 points
- FC Barcelona (Away)
- Mallorca (Home)
- Sevilla (Away)
- Real Sociedad (Home)
