Synopsis
As La Liga enters its final matches before the international break, Barcelona aims to solidify their lead with 57 points, while Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid closely follow. Key matchups include Atletico's recovery from a penalty loss and Villarreal's challenge against Real Madrid.Key Takeaways
- Atletico Madrid struggles after penalty loss.
- Barcelona rests key players for upcoming matches.
- Real Madrid faces a tough match against Villarreal.
- Valencia improves under Corberan.
- International break provides recovery for players.
Madrid (Spain), March 14 (NationPress) La Liga approaches its final matches before the initial international break of 2025. Barcelona, the former champions, aim to solidify their lead by increasing their current score of 57 points from 26 matches. Real Madrid also boasts 57 points but has played one extra match, while Atletico Madrid sits at 56 points from 27 games.
Athletic Bilbao is positioned fourth with 49 points, as the title race in Spain remains tight. As matchday 28 approaches, here are some key aspects to watch for this weekend:
1. Can Atletico rebound from penalty disappointment?
It’s difficult to conceive a more heartbreaking exit from Europe than what Atletico Madrid experienced against Real Madrid on Wednesday night, as reported by Xinhua.
Despite being the superior team over both legs, Atletico lost in a penalty shoot-out after Julian Alvarez’s penalty was disallowed due to a double touch.
After 120 minutes of high-stakes football and the suspension of Angel Correa, Atletico doesn’t seem to be in prime condition to face FC Barcelona on Sunday.
Conversely, Barcelona managed to rest key players during the final moments of their Champions League victory at home against Benfica, giving them an additional 26 hours of rest.
Atletico must deliver an exceptional performance to secure a win in this crucial match.
2. Villarreal faces Real Madrid
Real Madrid gained a morale boost by defeating their neighbors in Europe on Wednesday night, but the players exerted the same physical and mental energy as Atletico. The fact that they visit Villarreal on Saturday, not Sunday, offers minimal recovery time against one of the league's top-performing teams.
Carlo Ancelotti’s squad has appeared fatigued in recent outings, and with only two days to recuperate and prepare for a challenging opponent featuring talents like Alex Baena, Yeremy Pino, and Ayoze Perez, squad rotation will be essential.
3. Corberan guiding Valencia towards safety
It’s been a while since Valencia has enjoyed a weekend outside the relegation zone. Carlos Corberan’s team is currently in 16th place before their match against Girona.
After suffering a heavy 7-1 defeat at home to Barcelona in late January, Valencia seems to be recovering, with only one loss (against Atletico Madrid) in their last six league games.
Under the leadership of former West Brom manager Corberan, Valencia has become much tougher to overcome, bolstered by the return of Mouctar Diakhaby from injury and the acquisition of Umar Sadiq, enhancing both their defense and attack. Their chances of survival now appear significantly improved.
4. Anticipating the international break
For clubs participating in Europe, the stretch from the New Year to the first international break is arguably the most grueling period of the season, with the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Supercup also impacting teams like Real Sociedad, Betis, and Athletic Club Bilbao, alongside the 'big three'.
Players are beginning to suffer muscle injuries due to the demanding schedule, and the upcoming international break will provide coaches an opportunity for recovery and preparation for the critical last two months of the season.
