They won. Still, it's hard to smile. Real Madrid took the victory, but a bigger scene awaits.
Real Madrid beat Espanyol 2-0 in the 2025-2026 LaLiga round 34 at RCDE Stadium in Barcelona, Spain, on the 4th (KST). They remained in second place with 77 points. They continued to chase leader FC Barcelona (88 points).
The hero of the victory was Vinícius. He warmed up in the first half by striking the post, then struck twice in the second half. His combinations with Gonzalo García and Jude Bellingham shone. After a wide breakthrough came the opener, followed by a backheel pass finish to complete a multi-goal performance.
Real Madrid achieved the minimum objective. They prevented Barcelona's early title. At the same time they avoided an awkward situation. Had they lost this match, they might have had to give a guard of honor to Barcelona, who would have confirmed the title in the next match.
The story doesn't end here.
The next fixture is El Clásico. Real Madrid and Barcelona will face each other. The condition is clear. Barcelona will secure the title with even a draw in this match.
A stronger scenario is also possible. If Barcelona wins, the scene of them clinching the title against Real Madrid would occur.
The BBC noted that in LaLiga's 97-year history there has never been a case of the title being decided at El Clásico. This time that scene could become reality.
The numbers are overwhelming. The current gap between the two teams is 11 points. Depending on remaining results, Barcelona can aim for 100 points and even the record for most wins.
The burden is heavy for Real Madrid. With this victory they kept the embers of the title race alive. They would need to win all remaining matches while Barcelona must suffer consecutive losses. The realistic possibility is not high.
The season's overall flow is not good. Real Madrid were eliminated from the Supercopa, Copa del Rey, and UEFA Champions League this season. If they lose LaLiga as well, they would finish the season trophyless again. It would be the second time since the 2009-2010 season.
They secured the victory thanks to Vinícius's performance. The play was not bad either. Even so, attention turns to the next match.
It's El Clásico. It's not just a rivalry match. It's a stage with the title at stake. What remains for Real Madrid is not points but pride.
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