La Liga is not concluded yet, as Real Madrid managed to close within four points of Barcelona following a 1-0 victory over Getafe in an away game. Rotating players in preparation for the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on Saturday, Carlo Ancelotti depended on substitutes with Arda Guler scoring the crucial winning goal.
While Los Blancos’s roster may appear deep, recent rotations have led to dropped points due to injuries and player absences. Guler showcased his talent with an impressive weak-foot finish, ensuring the title race extends. At just 20 years old, this marked Guler’s first goal for Real Madrid since January 6.
ARDA G脺LER WITH A WONDERFUL WEAK FOOTED FINISH FROM OUTSIDE THE BOX 馃挜
馃摵 ESPN2 pic.twitter.com/ByjU0C5tNZ
Lacking Kylian Mbappe and with Jude Bellingham on the bench, it was imperative for someone to excel, and Guler rose to the occasion. With Barcelona鈥檚 win putting pressure on Real Madrid, they responded effectively.
Focus on the Cup
Real Madrid’s ability to rest players like Bellingham and Rodrygo is crucial for their performance in the Copa del Rey final. Despite questions about the team鈥檚 identity, they have advanced as far as Bellingham can take them. Depth players such as Guler look to break into the Copa del Rey starting XI.
Title Race: Remaining Schedule
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).
Can Real Madrid Win the Title?
With each team only having five more matches in the league, including another Clasico, Real Madrid must win that match while relying on Barcelona to falter elsewhere. Athletic Club on the final day appears to be a possible opportunity for Barcelona to slip.
Real Madrid has pivotal matches against Celta Vigo and Mallorca before El Clasico. With Barcelona still competing in the Champions League, they will have to rotate more, placing Real Madrid in a strong position heading into the final stretch of La Liga.
