La Liga heats up: Real Madrid loses ground while Barcelona advances thanks to rivals

Matchday 32 of La Liga has left a scenario increasingly favorable for FC Barcelona, which could clinch the title with a couple of favorable results, while Real Madrid drifts further away in the race after a disappointing draw against Real Betis at La Cartuja.

Real Madrid entered the match against Betis aiming to cut the gap to league leaders Barcelona. However, a goal from Vinicius Junior in the 16th minute was not enough to secure the win. Álvaro Arbeloa’s side showed moments of solidity, varied offensive combinations with Mbappé as the main playmaker, and several key interventions from goalkeeper Lunin, who prevented a certain defeat with decisive saves on multiple occasions.

Yet, the Merengues once again displayed their customary late-game fragility. Following a defensive miscoordination in the final minute, former Blaugrana player Héctor Bellerín capitalized on a mistake by Mendy to equalize, leaving the match tied at 1-1. The injury to Mbappé, who had to leave the field in the 80th minute due to a left hamstring strain, is another setback for the Blancos less than two months before the World Cup.

Manager Álvaro Arbeloa has made it clear that, while a comeback is unlikely, he wants his team to finish the season with pride, aiming to win all remaining matches—including the Clásico on May 10—without losing focus or thinking about the World Cup.

Meanwhile, Betis continues to solidify its position in the race for fifth place, which grants access to next season’s Champions League. With a five-point lead over their closest rivals, Pellegrini’s side sees the draw against Madrid as a sweet boost to their European dreams.

In contrast, Barcelona enjoys a privileged position. After the injury to rising star Lamine Yamal and without Eric, Raphinha, or Bernal, the Blaugrana visit the Coliseum Alfonso Pérez this Saturday to face a Getafe side aspiring to European qualification. The match kicks off at 16:15 and could give Xavi Flick’s men an eleven-point lead over Real Madrid if they secure a win.

Historically, Barcelona has not won in their last five visits to Getafe, recording one loss and four draws at this stadium—a statistic that adds uncertainty to their ambition of sealing the championship this weekend. However, Barça faces the challenge with key players returning and tactical adjustments to overcome absences.

The injury suffered by Lamine Yamal in Wednesday’s match against Celta Vigo was a harsh blow for Barça, especially after he scored a decisive penalty. The young player had to leave the game due to muscle issues, and his absence will be keenly felt during these crucial moments of the season. Nevertheless, the Blaugrana showed resilience to pull through the match and maintain a nine-point lead over Real Madrid to date.

Ultimately, the race for the Spanish league title intensifies, with Real Madrid accumulating difficulties both on and off the pitch, while Barcelona—boosted by a favorable schedule and a weakened direct rival—looks confidently toward the title, which could be decided before the anticipated Clásico on May 10. The season enters its decisive stretch, with thrills and incentives in every matchday.