Real Madrid kept their La Liga title aspirations alive by reducing the deficit to leaders Barcelona to just four points, thanks to a narrow 1-0 victory away at Getafe. With attention partly focused on the upcoming Copa del Rey final against Barcelona this Saturday, coach Carlo Ancelotti rotated his squad, giving opportunities to fringe players. Arda Guler proved decisive, scoring the game`s only goal to secure all three points on Wednesday.
Despite having theoretical depth in their squad, Real Madrid has experienced dropped points when rotating recently, with the team sometimes appearing stretched due to injuries and player absences. However, Guler produced a moment of magic, utilizing his weaker foot to ensure the title race remains competitive. For the 20-year-old, it has been a challenging season, and this goal was his first for Real Madrid since scoring in the Copa del Rey on January 6.
In the absence of key players like Kylian Mbappe, and with Jude Bellingham on the bench, someone needed to step up, and Guler successfully fulfilled that role. Following Barcelona`s victory on Tuesday, pressure was on Real Madrid to match the result, which they did. Having been eliminated from the Champions League by Arsenal, Real Madrid`s season objectives now primarily rest on making up ground in La Liga and winning the Copa del Rey. A crucial late save from Thibaut Courtois was vital in keeping the La Liga dream within reach.
With players like Mbappe expected to feature, the team is built to challenge for all competitions. However, currently facing a tough scenario, there is a possibility Real Madrid could end the season without securing any trophies.
Shifting Focus to the Cup Final
Resting players such as Bellingham and Rodrygo was a key factor in ensuring Real Madrid can deploy their strongest lineup for the Copa del Rey final. While there are ongoing discussions about the team`s identity or tactical balance, they have often relied heavily on Bellingham`s impact during his time at the club. Depth players like Guler may have been hoping to earn a spot in the Copa del Rey starting eleven and could be needed if the team encounters difficulties. Kylian Mbappe is anticipated to return and lead the attack in the final, but overcoming Barcelona will be a significant challenge.
Coach Ancelotti has also indicated that Eduardo Camavinga and David Alaba are expected to miss the final, highlighting the need for Real Madrid to deliver a top-tier performance to lift the trophy.
La Liga Title Race: Upcoming Fixtures
1. FC Barcelona — 76 points
Real Valladolid (A), Real Madrid (H), Espanyol (A), Villarreal (H), Athletic Club (A).
2. Real Madrid — 72 points
Celta (H), FC Barcelona (A), Mallorca (H), Sevilla (A), Real Sociedad (H).
Real Madrid`s Prospects in the Title Race
Both teams have just five league matches remaining, including a crucial second Clasico encounter. Real Madrid must win that direct match and hope Barcelona drops points elsewhere to maintain a realistic chance at the title. Barcelona`s away trip to Athletic Club on the final matchday appears to be potentially their most difficult remaining fixture, although the title could be decided before then. Real Madrid faces vital home games against Celta Vigo and Mallorca around the El Clasico date, both requiring maximum points. With Barcelona still involved in the Champions League, coach Hansi Flick may be forced to rotate more than Ancelotti. Nevertheless, the winner of the El Clasico is widely expected to be the favorite to clinch the La Liga trophy.
Current La Liga Standings
| TEAM | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barcelona | 33 | 24 | 4 | 5 | 89 | 32 | +57 | 76 |
| Real Madrid | 33 | 22 | 6 | 5 | 66 | 31 | +35 | 72 |
Dominic Ashworth