Daijiworld Media Network – Spain
Spain, May 1: The 34th round of La Liga promises intense action as FC Barcelona and Real Madrid both struggle with injuries and fatigue while aiming for the season's title. Meanwhile, the race for Europe and the battle to avoid relegation intensify across the league.
Barcelona, fresh off a thrilling 3-3 draw with Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, saw defender Jules Kounde suffer a muscle injury. As they defend their four-point lead over Real Madrid at the top of the table, fatigue is mounting for the Catalan giants. With several high-stakes games ahead, Barcelona faces a tough task balancing domestic and European commitments.
Real Madrid has had a difficult week, with a loss to Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final and growing speculation about coach Carlo Ancelotti’s future amid links to Brazil’s national team. Ancelotti will be without key players such as Antonio Rudiger, Ferland Mendy, Eduardo Camavinga, and David Alaba for their crucial match at home against in-form Celta Vigo. With Barcelona looming on the horizon next weekend, Real Madrid must win to stay in the title race.
Rayo Vallecano will face Getafe in a mid-table clash as both sides look to build on recent results. Alaves, in 17th place, will have a tough task against Atletico Madrid, while Villarreal hosts Osasuna, who are in strong form after three consecutive wins. Real Betis will travel to Espanyol, who have been tough to beat at home. Athletic Bilbao, in fourth place, will face Real Sociedad in a Basque derby, with Real Sociedad's coach Imanol Alguacil set to step down at season's end.
Las Palmas, fighting to escape the relegation zone, will need a win at home against Valencia. Sevilla, who have dropped close to the relegation zone, will be under pressure against Leganes. The round concludes on Monday with Girona hoping to end a poor run of form against Mallorca, who are pushing for a top-eight finish.
As the season reaches its climax, every point is crucial for teams at both ends of the table, making this round of La Liga fixtures a must-watch for fans across Spain.