Real Madrid’s slim hopes of winning the La Liga title could officially come to an end this weekend against a struggling Espanyol side at RCDE Stadium. With just a few matches left in the season, every point counts — and Madrid needs a miracle.
Currently, Real Madrid sits second in the La Liga table, trailing Barcelona by a staggering 11 points. Meanwhile, Espanyol finds itself in 13th place, only five points away from sixth-placed Getafe. Their parallel struggles tell a story of contrasting fortunes. While Madrid has been inconsistent, Espanyol has not won any matches in 2026, drawing six and losing ten of their sixteen games this year.
The first encounter between these two teams ended poorly for Madrid; they lost 2-0 at the Bernabeu earlier this season. This history looms large as they prepare for their trip to Barcelona. Adding to their woes, Real Madrid has only managed one victory in their last six outings across all competitions. With each passing game, doubts grow about their ability to contend for the title.
Key facts:
- Real Madrid is currently second in La Liga, 11 points behind Barcelona.
- Espanyol is in 13th place, five points off sixth-placed Getafe.
- Espanyol has not won any matches in 2026.
- Real Madrid lost 2-0 to Espanyol earlier this season.
- Madrid’s last away league victory was at the start of March.
Hansi Flick faces mounting pressure as he tries to steer his team through these turbulent waters. The absence of key players like Vinicius Junior and Alvaro Arbeloa has added strain to an already fragile squad. Fans are left wondering if Kylian Mbappe might have made a difference had he joined earlier in the season.
With just a handful of matches remaining, every detail matters. Officials have not confirmed whether any tactical changes will be made for this crucial match. What remains uncertain is how both teams will adapt under pressure — especially Espanyol, who last tasted victory before Christmas 2025.