The La Liga title race remains open after Real Madrid secured a 1-0 away victory over Getafe, moving them to within four points of league leaders Barcelona. With an eye on the upcoming Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on Saturday, coach Carlo Ancelotti rotated his squad, relying on reserve players. Arda Guler proved decisive, scoring the winning goal on Wednesday to claim all three points for his side.
While `Los Blancos` are often considered to have significant squad depth, rotation has sometimes coincided with them dropping points recently, partly due to injuries and player absences. However, young Guler, just 20 years old, produced a moment of magic with his less-favored foot to ensure the title challenge continues. This goal marked Guler`s first for Real Madrid since a Copa del Rey appearance on January 6, reflecting a season that has seen its ups and downs for the midfielder.
With key figures like Kylian Mbappe unavailable and Jude Bellingham starting from the bench, there was a need for others to step up, and Guler answered that call. Following Barcelona`s victory on Tuesday, the pressure was squarely on Real Madrid to win this fixture, and they rose to the occasion. Having been eliminated from the Champions League, Real Madrid`s remaining season objectives are clear: reduce the deficit in La Liga and win the Copa del Rey. A crucial late save from Thibaut Courtois was vital in preserving the win and keeping their La Liga aspirations alive.
The team, particularly with the anticipated inclusion of top talent, is expected to compete for every possible trophy. However, facing challenges and with their backs against the wall, there is a real possibility that Real Madrid could conclude this season without securing any major silverware.
Focus on the Copa del Rey Final
Resting players such as Bellingham and Rodrygo is a critical strategy to ensure Real Madrid can field their strongest lineup for the Copa del Rey final. While questions about the team`s fundamental identity or balance on the pitch may persist, much of their success this season has been driven by Bellingham`s performances. Reserve players like Guler might have hoped their recent contributions would earn them a starting spot in the final, but if the match proves difficult, they may still be crucial in turning the tide. Mbappe is expected back for the final and will likely lead the attack, but even without Robert Lewandowski available, defeating Barcelona will be a formidable challenge for Real Madrid.
Furthermore, with Eduardo Camavinga and David Alaba expected to miss the final due to injury, as confirmed by Coach Ancelotti, Real Madrid will require a near-perfect collective effort to lift the trophy.
La Liga Title Race: Remaining Fixtures
Here are the remaining league matches for the top two teams:
- 1. FC Barcelona — 76 points
- Real Valladolid (Away)
- Real Madrid (Home)
- Espanyol (Away)
- Villarreal (Home)
- Athletic Club (Away)
- 2. Real Madrid — 72 points
- Celta Vigo (Home)
- FC Barcelona (Away)
- Mallorca (Home)
- Sevilla (Away)
- Real Sociedad (Home)
Can Real Madrid Still Win La Liga?
Both teams have just five league matches remaining, including one more direct encounter in the Clasico. Real Madrid must win this head-to-head fixture to maintain any realistic hope of catching Barcelona. They also need Barcelona to drop points in at least one other match. Barcelona`s away trip to Athletic Club on the final matchday appears potentially the toughest remaining hurdle, although the title could be decided before the season concludes. Real Madrid faces crucial home matches against Celta Vigo and Mallorca surrounding the Clasico – these are must-win games. Given Barcelona`s continued involvement in the Champions League (based on the timing of the original article), their coach might be compelled to rotate his squad more frequently than Ancelotti. Ultimately, the winner of the upcoming El Clasico is likely the team that will go on to claim the La Liga trophy at the end of the season.
La Liga Standings
| TEAM | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Barcelona | 33 | 24 | 4 | 5 | 89 | 32 | +57 | 76 |
| 2. Real Madrid | 33 | 22 | 6 | 5 | 66 | 31 | +35 | 72 |
