Two gifts that could hand Barcelona the title: Atletico & Madrid slip up

Atletico Madrid, like Real Madrid, can’t keep up with Barcelona’s rhythm. The Rojiblanco drew with Villarreal (0-0) on Sunday and are now eight points behind Luis Enrique’s side, a distance which you can technically add another point to due to the Catalan side’s head-to-head and goal difference advantage. 

Atletico have only conceded 11 goals in their 25 games this season, although they have not been as efficient at the other end of the pitch. Madrid, for their part, also drew on Sunday. They were held by Malaga and are now nine points behind Barça. Los Blancos have struggled away from the Santiago Bernabeu this season and have only won once of their last four away games in the league (Granada).

In these circumstances, the question is obligatory: Is La Liga over already? It’s difficult to answer. In 2003-04, after 25 games as well, Madrid were eight points clear of Valencia, only for Los Che to win the title. However, given Barça’s performances in comparison to Atletico and Real, it seems unlikely will see such a drastic change in the table. In addition, the two capital city clubs meet each other next weekend at the Bernabeu and the loser will be left needing a miracle if they want to win the title. 

It’s been the perfect weekend for Barcelona. As well as the Madrid sides, the teams in fourth and fifth - Villarreal and Sevilla - also drew, leaving Barça 22 points clear of Sevilla.