Spain`s La Liga is reaching its critical final stages, with the title race essentially down to two clubs. FC Barcelona currently holds the top position in the standings, while Real Madrid hopes to mount a late challenge. Barcelona has demonstrated greater consistency throughout the season, but Real Madrid remains a contender with just four matches remaining. A key fixture is the upcoming El Clasico set for May 11 in Barcelona. This final encounter between the two rivals in the La Liga season could potentially determine the champion of the 2024-25 campaign.
Despite their exit from the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals against Arsenal, Real Madrid is still regarded as one of Europe`s elite teams. Following the acquisition of French star Kylian Mbappe on a free transfer in the summer of 2024, Los Blancos have assembled a star-studded squad, particularly pairing the former PSG forward with Brazilian striker Vinicius Jr. However, Barcelona has been the stronger side domestically this season, having scored 22 more goals than Real Madrid.
In recent league action on Saturday, Barcelona secured a 2-1 comeback victory away at Real Valladolid, with Fermin Lopez and Raphinha finding the net in the second half after falling behind. Real Madrid also won on Saturday, defeating Celta Vigo 3-2. However, their performance was less convincing; after establishing a 3-0 lead, they allowed Celta Vigo back into the game, narrowly avoiding dropping points which would have severely hampered their title aspirations.
Here is a look at the current standings and the remaining fixtures for the top two:
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 (H), Espanyol (A), Villarreal (H), Athletic Club (A).
2. Real Madrid — 75 points
FC Barcelona (A), Mallorca (H), Sevilla (A), Real Sociedad (H).
