(Getty)
With only two weeks left in the Spanish campaign, local rivalries are set to play a huge role in the title race. Barcelona can win their third title in four years with just two more wins, but they take on local rival Espanyol. Real Madrid are still one point behind Barca and Atletico, but could have their season ended by up-and-down Valencia.
If chasing the title wasn’t enough, an all-Spanish Champions League final was sealed this week. Atletico and Real Madrid will meet at the San Siro, but will either of them be chasing a double when they get there?
After Sunday’s action, Barcelona are alone at the top of the standings. Levante upset Atletico Madrid, and now it’s Barca and Real contending for the title heading into the season’s final week.
Here’s an updated look at the top three:
1. Barcelona
Points: 88
Last 10 Matches: 8-1-1
Remaining Fixtures: at Granada
Worth Mentioning: Defeated Espanyol 5-0. Jeremy Mathieu has returned to training, but it’s unlikely he makes another appearance this season. Barcelona have posted four straight shutouts in La Liga play.
2. Real Madrid
Points: 87
Last 10 Matches: 10-0-0
Remaining Fixtures: at Deportivo
Worth Mentioning: Defeated Valencia 3-2. Real Madrid are limping towards the finish line, and they will be without Gareth Bale against Valencia. Benzema, Ronaldo and Casemiro are all banged up as well, making it even tougher for Madrid to continue their 10-match winning streak that has propelled them into the title race.
3. Atletico Madrid
Points: 85
Last 10 Matches: 9-0-1
Remaining Fixtures: vs. Celta Vigo
Worth Mentioning: Lost 2-1 to Levante. Diego Simeone will continue to serve his ban, but has insisted his team will not be distracted by the Champions League final.
“It is not important to look at other sides. We must depend on ourselves to get the most points and then wait and see what the rest do,” Simeone said this week.