La Liga: Key Insights from Matchday 24 in Spain

Key Takeaways

Missed Opportunities: Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid both failed to capitalize on chances.
Bellingham's Red Card: Controversy surrounds Jude Bellingham's sending off for foul language.
Atletico's Lack of Ambition: A draw against Celta Madrid leaves Atletico trailing.
Espanyol's Defensive Strength: Slowly moving towards safety with solid performances.
Title Race Tightens: Competitive pressure remains high as teams jockey for position.

Madrid, Feb 17 (NationPress) The Spanish La Liga has seen significant shifts every weekend as the battle for the title intensifies following Real Madrid's draw. With FC Barcelona not in action until Monday night, other teams had the opportunity to apply pressure on Hansi Flick's squad, but they fell short.

Here are some key insights from Spain's matchday 24.

1. Missed Opportunities at the Top

The weekend's results were unusual, with Real Madrid drawing 1-1 against Osasuna and Atletico Madrid also ending in a 1-1 draw at home to Celta Vigo on Saturday afternoon, according to reports from Xinhua. The East-coast Derby saw Villarreal, positioned fifth, held 1-1 at home by Valencia.

Athletic Club Bilbao managed to extend their unbeaten streak in La Liga to 15 games on Sunday but could only manage a 1-1 draw against Espanyol, missing the chance to close the gap at the top of the table. Meanwhile, Rayo Vallecano is set to face Barcelona on Monday. Consequently, Mallorca emerged as the highest-ranked team to secure all three points, finishing the weekend in 10th place.

2. Bellingham's Controversy

Jude Bellingham's direct red card during Real Madrid's 1-1 stalemate with Osasuna stole the spotlight this weekend. Referee Jose Luis Munuera Martinez issued the red card for Bellingham's use of the 'f-word.' Real Madrid contends that Bellingham was merely expressing frustration at himself and that he said 'f-off' rather than the referee's interpretation of 'f-you.'

Bellingham's growing frustration and visible complaints to officials this season may suggest a need for greater self-discipline.

3. Atletico Misses Another Chance

Atletico Madrid had the opportunity to claim the top position in La Liga with a win against Celta, but their 1-1 draw means they remain behind Real Madrid. Despite being reduced to 10 men just eight minutes in due to Pablo Barrios' red card, they could have performed better.

Atletico failed to register a shot on target in the first half and seemed content with a draw, only pushing forward after Iago Aspas' penalty put Celta in the lead. Alexander Sorloth managed to level the score with an impressive solo effort, but Atletico's 32 percent possession reflects a lack of ambition that could prove costly as the season progresses.

4. Espanyol's March to Safety

Espanyol might feel a sense of disappointment after settling for a draw against Athletic Club Bilbao, but under Manolo Gonzalez, they are gradually working towards safety, displaying solid defense and strong effort.

Roberto Fernandez's determination paid off when he chased down Athletic goalkeeper Unai Simon to net the opener, but a deflected effort from Oihan Sancet ensured they only walked away with a point.

Espanyol has not lost at home since October 25, but they possess the poorest away record in La Liga. With three away games in the next four weeks, they must improve their performance on the road.