The LaLiga title race was not over yet when Vinicius Junior Real Madrid win saw Real Madrid beat Espanyol 2-0. The outcome postponed Barcelona in validating their championship. The star of the night was Vinicius Junior. He has not only scored, but also came through when his team needed him the most. It was his pace and finishing which made the difference in a match which Madrid could not spare.
Before the kickoff, Barcelona were now very close to sealing the title. Madrid slip would have made them champions. Rather, this outcome narrowed the margin to 11 games with four games yet to be played. It will not make much of a difference to the overall picture, but it will create tension during the final stretch. Now the emphasis is on the largest game in Spanish football. Everything will be determined by the next El Clasico.
In case Barcelona does not lose, they will be sure of the title. It can only be postponed by a Madrid victory. The urgency and control were evident in the performance of Madrid. They controlled the game properly and did not give Espanyol a lot of open opportunities. Vinicius was at the front, forcing the pressure into results. Manager Alvaro Arbeloa highlighted the importance of the next match. He has recognized the difficulty that lies ahead and emphasized preparation.
In the case of Barcelona, things are still comfortable. They are still in complete control of the title race under Hansi Flick. But they have now to wait at least a week longer. The victory itself does not alter the probable outcome, but preconditions a high-stakes Clasico. The title race is yet to be decided.
