La Liga Showdown: A weekend to stand up and be counted

Now the Atletico Madrid fans have left Neptune in peace, at least for a few days, it's time for the Liga showdown. Nothing has been decided at either end of the table with the Liga trophy, qualification for Europe and survival all up for grabs. It promises to be a frenetic finale to a memorable season. Whatever Zinedine Zidane and Manuel Pellegrini spout in the press, there will only be one league winner this season and you will be hard pushed to find a betting man laying any serious cash on Real Madrid. Frankly I'm surprised there have been no gushing declarations from CR9 predicting a glorious end to his first year in Spain. Even Sergio 'We'll win 3-0' Ramos seems resigned to finishing second. Barcelona have the simple task of needing a win against relegation-threatened Real Valladolid at home. I'll give that one an odds on. On saturday Sevilla and Mallorca will be hoping to claim the final Champions League position while Getafe and Villarreal will fight it out for 6th place and qualification for next years Europa League.

The fun and games at either end of the table then fire up on Sunday evening. Five teams no less will be scrapping for their lives as the relegation trapdoor prepares to lock shut. I can't remember a relegation D-day quite like it, since 1983 by all accounts. Safe to say some have got it easier than others. Real Madrid and Barcelona aren't quite the teams you would choose to face in these circumstances, so you have to feel a little sorry for poor old Malaga and Valladolid, who let's face it look doomed. Tenerife face a tough trip to the Mestalla, Racing host Sporting Gijon, while everyones second favourite team, Xerez, travel up to Pamplona to lock horns with Osasuna. Whatever happens there'll be some tears, some celebrations and we'll move on to the cup final before everyone settles down for the World Cup. I bloody love World Cup summers. Enjoy the weekend. 

La Liga relegation battle reaches dramatic climax: Three of five to go down

The battle for the title might be a two-way affair, but the all-out scrap for survival has gifted us a no holds barred fist-fight between five clubs who will be holding no punches come 7pm on Sunday evening. Racing Santander, Real Valladolid, Tenerife, Malaga and even Xerez enter the final matchday with  a real chance of starting next year in La Liga, but an equally real possibility of falling out the top flight. Three clubs will descend into 'hell', whilst two will celebrate a last-gasp escape from the jaws of La Segunda. What complicates matters a little more is than in Spain, a tie on points isn't decided by goal difference, but by the points earned in the games played against each other.

Currently Real Valladolid and Racing Santander are out of the relegation zone because in all the league games played between them, Tenerife and Malaga (imagine it as a mini-league), Valladolid and Racing have earned 8 points, with the rest all on 7. (Ignore my league table on the right, it's conveniently wrong). Then goal difference within that mini-league is taken into account and if the teams are still tied, on goal difference in the league overall. The final tiebreaker is the Fair Play League. Here is a slightly complicated look at what each team needs to do to stay up:

Real Valladolid (v Barcelona AWAY): If they win they are practically saved. In the case of a draw, they are down if two out of Malaga, Tenerife and Racing win. Lose and they need Xerez not to win and Racing, Tenerife and/or Malaga to lose.

Verdict: You're going down!

Malaga (v Real Madrid HOME): If they win they need one of Racing o Valladolid not to. In the event of a draw they need two out of Racing, Valladolid and Tenerife to lose OR for Valladolid to lose and Racing and Tenerife to draw. If they lose they will fall into La Segunda.

Verdict: You're going down!

Racing Santander (v Sporting Gijon HOME): If Racing win, they need two out of Valladolid, Malaga and Tenerife to not win. A draw and they need two out of Valladolid, Tenerife and Malaga to draw/lose. If Racing fall to defeat they need two of the rest to lose with even a Xerez victory not enough to relegate them.

Verdict: Lucky escape! (Rumour has it a dirty boardroom deal has already been struck with Sporting)

Tenerife (v Valencia AWAY): If they Tenerife win, they need both Malaga and Valladolid not to do so. To survive in the event of a draw they need two out of Malaga, Valladolid or Racing to lose. Lose and they drop down, regardless of what Xerez do.

Verdict: You're going down!

Xerez (v Osasuna AWAY): A modern day footballing miracle if they manage it. If Xerez beat Osasuna they need Malaga, Valladolid and one from Tenerife and Racing all to lose. If they don't win, they're down. Simple as.

Verdict: Miracle escape!

Messi, Bojan and Pedro combine to sink plucky Tenerife (Highlights)

Barcelona 4 - 1 Tenerife
(1-0) 17' Messi, (1-1) 39' Roman, (2-1) 63' Bojan, (3-1) 77' Pedro, (4-1) 93' Messi

A victory made in Barcelona. Lionel Messi (2), Pedro and Bojan scored the goals that saw Barcelona open up a four point gap (again) with only two matches to play. After Messi had dinked in the first, Carlos Puyol committed defensive suicide as half-time approached to let in Roman, whose goal gave hope to those watching in the Canaries and Madrid. But a dominant second half display saw Barca rattle in three goals in soaking conditions to ensure Real Madrid enter tomorrows clash against Mallorca under a little bit of added pressure. Tenerife simply didnt have the quality to trouble Guardiolas men after the break, with their hopes of survival taking at predictable jolt at the Camp Nou.

The fact that Jose Luis Oltra left out topscorer Nino, along with Alfaro and Marc Bertran, showed that bigger battles lay ahead for the Tinerfeños. While Lionel Messi basks in the glory of 31 league goals (and 44 in total), poor old Zlatan Ibrahimovic slouched off, subbed in the second half, after another anonymous display. Just as well the summer break is around the corner and Sweden aren´t in the World Cup. A rest will do him good.

Valencia 3 - 1 Xerez

(0-1) 37' Armenteros, (1-1) 45' Mata, (2-1) 57' Mata, (3-1) 67' Silva

Rather suitably, 'mata' means 'he kills' in Spanish. And thats exactly what Juan Mata did tonight to Xerezs fading hopes of saving themselves from dropping out of La Liga. When Emilio Armeteros scored the opener, I really thought that Xerez could pull another away win out of the bag. They momentarily lifted themselves off the foot of the table and the miracle escape was on; lead by the god-like figure of Nestor Gorosito. So it was a pity they couldn't get to half-time one up, as Mata curled in a delicious free-kick in added time. That goal gave the second half a whole new complexion, with Valencia fine-tuning their starstudded forward line for a 45 minute barrage which lead to a second for Mata and a goal for David Silva. Time for Xerez to start praying; wins for Malaga and Racing Santander tomorrow will send them down.

Almeria 4 - 2 Villarreal

(1-0) 14' Crusat, (2-0) 28' Uche, (3-0) 42' Uche, (3-1) 53' Marcano, (3-2) 66' Ibagaza, (4-2) 92' Piatti

Almeria made the most of their pace and trickery upfront to seal three points which almost certainly confirms their participation in La Liga next season. A mixture of searing speed from Crusat, an early sending off for Villarreals Mussachio and deadly finishing from Kala Uche ensured Almeria surged into a 3-0 lead. But back came Garridos side with two goals that had Juegos Mediterraneos stadium sweating until Piatti struck late on the seal the deal. I like the looks of Crusat and Piatti. Don't be surprised if bigger clubs whisk them away in the summer.

Getafe 1 - 1 Sporting Gijon

(0-1) 17' De Las Cuevas, (1-1) 47' Soldado

Roberto Soldado emerged from a month and a half out through injury to score a belting overhead kick which lifted Getafe into the Europa League positions and meant that Sporting have to wait another few days to mathematically save themselves from the drop. The goal from De Las Cuevas wasn't half bad either.

Kaka saves Real Madrids blushes as they close on Barcelona (Highlights)

Real Zaragoza 1 - 2 Real Madrid

(0-1) 50' Raul, (1-1) 61' Colunga, (1-2) 82' Kaka

Kaká and Raul rose like phoenixes from the flames to reignite Real Madrids title challenge, just when it looked to have burned out at La Romareda. Both had only just returned from lengthy injuries and who knows just how important their contributions against Real Zaragoza will be. Rauls goal typified a career that has spanned 16 years and 228 league goals (now third in the all-time list) as he struck only moments after having asked to be subbed, limping as he raced into the area to slot in just after half-time. How Real Madrid will need to display the same drive and determination in their dogged pursuit of Barca. Just after Rauls goal, a moment of madness from Zaragoza defender Matteo Contini left his team down to ten men and Real Madrid looked home and dry.

That was until Adrian Colunga, on for Suazo, who dislocated his shoulder, raced onto an exquisite pass from Abel Aguilar to round Casillas and stroke the ball home. It was a critical moment for Real Madrid as they stared a second successive trophyless season full on in the face, until their Brazilian star jumped off the bench after two months out, collected a Cristiano Ronaldo pass and slotted past the otherwise impressive Roberto. A crucial goal and a deserved victory as we enter into a possibly pivotal weekend where Barca travel to Villarreal and Real Madrid host Osasuna.

Barcelona 3 - 1 Xerez
(1-0) 14' Jeffren, (2-0) 24' Henry, (2-1) 25' Bermejo, (3-1) 55' Ibrahimovic

Barcelona jumped another fence succesfully as they overcame a spirited performance from Xerez to maintain their one point advantage over Real Madrid. It wasn't pretty but it was hugely effective as goals from Jeffren, Thierry Henry and Ibrahimovic cancelled out a stunning strike from Mario Bermejo to leave Xerez on the edge of the drop. A victory for Malaga today will surely sentence the Xerezanos to relegation. But they can take great credit for a performance that was as good as any seen by a visiting team at the Camp Nou this season, matching Barca pass for pass. Gorositos men even had chances to equalise just after half-time, but as soon as Zlatan converted a slide rule pass from Yaya Toure, the game was up. The match ended on a nasty note as Orellana and Alustiza both received red for the visitors. 7 yellow cards and 2 reds were shown to Xerez during the match. Excessive to say the least. After the final whistle the Barcelona players wore shirts pleading for extra support on wednesday as their attentions turn to their hugely important Champions League semi final second leg against Mourinhos Inter Milan.

Valencia 1 - 0 Deportivo La Coruña

(1-0) 33' Villa (p)

Third place secured for Unai Emerys side? David Villa scored his 15th consecutive penalty to record a deserved win for Valencia. They dominated Depor throughout and only a resolute defensive performance from Piscu and Ze Castro. At the other end of the pitch Deportivo were non-existant as Riki and Adrian ghosted through the match almost unnoticed. A promising start from the Galicians has faded badly since the halfway mark with their hopes of UEFA qualification hanging by a thread.

Real Madrid blow the title race wide open with win over Valencia (Highlights)

Real Madrid 2 - 0 Valencia
(1-0) 25' Higuain, (2-0) 78' Cristiano Ronaldo

On a weekend in which races for the title were blown wide open across Europe, La Liga followed suit as Real Madrid dispatched a disappointing Valencia with ease at the Santiago Bernabeu. Were it not for yet another spectacular performance from Cesar Sanchez in the Valencia goal it could well have been a rout, as Madrid dominated. Guti and Xabi Alonso were sensational throughout, with Guti setting up the first and providing plenty more incisive passes that could have lead to several more were it not for some wasteful finishing and acrobatic goalkeeping. The veteran midfielder turned back the years in the 25th minute; winning the ball off Bruno out wide and threading an inch-perfect pass through to Higuain who spun beautifully from his marker and finished clinically past Cesar. Apart from when Juan Mata struck the post, Valencia hardly created a chance of note, with Villa, Silva, Mata and Pablo Hernandez all enduring a frustrating evening. How a team with such an array of attacking talent can fail to trouble Casillas will surely be playing on Unai Emerys mind as he begins to plot his teams assault on next seasons Champions League.

If the first goal was all about Guti, the second had Marcelo written all over it. He may be derided in some quarters for his defensive failings, but as an attacking force the Brazilian is lethal. He skipped past Bruno as if the defender didnt exist and squared for Cristiano Ronaldo to complete the formalities from close to the penalty spot. Those who thought La Liga was done and dusted as the Barca players rejoiced in the Bernabeu centre circle 7 days ago, can think again. One point in it.

 

Xerez 2 - 2 Racing Santander

(1-0) 6' Orellana, (1-1) 43' Tchite, (1-2) 57' Tchite (p), (2-2) 72' Victor Sanchez

If Xerez do finally get relegated to La Segunda, they can look back to the second half of this season with pride. They way they have performed since Nestor Gorosito took over has been nothing short of inspirational, with Momo, Victor Sanchez, Fabian Orellana and Sidi Ketia the stars of the show. But for the second week running, they failed to get the three points their flowing football and improved concentration at the back deserved. The Xerez goals were a joy to behold, but both Racing Santander goals were avoidable. Two slips opening the path for Tchites first, whilst the second was a horrendous error from the ref as he penalised Victor Sanchez for a non-existant trip. When you are a club the size of Xerez, favours from the refs are few and far between. Even so, the striker from Burundi must be commended for his haul of four goals in two matches after a barren spell that had lasted just under a year. So the trapdoor creeps ever closer for La Ligas bottom side, but as long as it is still mathematically possible for them to stay up, you can be sure Gorosito and his men won't throw in the towel. Next week Barca at the Camp Nou.

Tenerife 3 - 2 Getafe

(0-1) 10' Pedro Leon, (1-1) 30' Nino, (2-1) 69' Nino, (2-2) 75' Casquero, (3-2) 76' Nino

Deportivo La Coruña 0 - 0 Almeria

Athletic Bilbao 0 - 0 Real Zaragoza

Malaga 0 - 0 Real Valladolid

Barcelona brush Depor aside to jump six points clear (Highlights)

Barcelona 3 - 0 Deportivo La Coruña
(1-0) 15' Bojan, (2-0) 68' Pedro, (3-0) 72' Toure Yaya

Barcelona brushed aside a weak Depor side to leap six points clear of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga. Barca dominated the match with embarrassing ease, but it wasn't until late on in the second half before they made sure of the win. Bojan, who has looked razor sharp in this seasons home straight, put Barca infront early on after yet another defence splitting pass from Xavi Hernandez. Messi may well be the best player in world football right now, but the importance of Xavi to this side can never be underestimated. Deportivo didn't get a touch of the ball  in the first half, but the Galicians fought their way back into the match after halftime, and gave the host a couple of scares before Pedro got the all important second goal with twenty minutes remaining.

And what a goal it was. Victor Valdes pumped the ball forward and when Depor keeper Aranzubia failed to properly clear his lines, Pedro curled the ball first-time into the empty net from close to the halfway line. The young man from Tenerife displaying once more his exquisite quality, and after his match-settling goal in the Clasico, the stage is set for Pedro to emerge as a vital cog in the Barca machine next season, if he isn't already. Toure Yaya smashed in the third shortly after, allowing the Camp Nou crowd to break into Mexican waves as the match drew to a close. If Real Madrid fail to get anything other than a win tomorrow at Almeria, its game over.

Atletico Madrid 1 - 2 Xerez
(0-1) 9' Bermejo, (1-1) 11' Forlan, (1-2) 72' Armenteros

Who saw this one coming? Just when it seemed Xerez were out for the count, they pull off an incredible away victory at the Vicente Calderon. Atletico Madrid may well have given up on the league, but the small team from Andalucia certainly havn't. They are now only six points behind Málaga and with a vital home match against Racing Santander coming up this weekend, they could well be only three points off salvation as we enter the final five matches. Mario Bermejo and Emilio Armenteros headed in both the goals, with De Gea left glaringly exposed on both occasions. Meanwhile, for Atletico, La Liga appears to be an inconvenient distraction as they prepare to fight it out with Liverpool and Sevilla in their search for silverware. Tonight they were woeful, with only Forlans bullet of a goal worth cheering about. Jurado has replaced Diego Forlan as the crowds public enemy number one, as the fans make their dismay at their teams league form abundantly clear.

Real Zaragoza 1 - 1 Mallorca
(0-1) 13' Ruben, (1-1) 21' Suazo

Real Zaragoza really aren't making it easy for themselves. Anyone who follows 'Los Maños' knows that they struggle badly to score points away from home, which makes those matches at La Romareda doubly important. Just as well the referee wrongly ruled out a late Aduriz goal that would have placed Zaragoza in serious trouble. Ruben headed Mallorca into the lead but Zaragoza were quick to level matters as 'Chupete' Suazo chipped a delightful goal over Aouate. The Chilean has been an inspired signing and could well be the difference between relegation and survival. Borja Valero gave yet another Xavi-esque performance as his team leapfrog Sevilla in the fight for the fourth Champions League position.

Racing Santander 3 - 1 Espanyol
(0-1) 32' Alonso (1-1) 36' Tchite (p), (2-1) 50' Tchite (p), (3-1) 91' Arana

Osasuna 2 - 2 Malaga
(1-0) 10' Pandiani, (1-1) 32' Caicedo, (2-1) 48' Pandiani, (2-2) 76' Baha

Real Madrid ensure they enter El Clasico neck and neck with Barca

Racing Santander 0 - 2 Real Madrid
(0-1) 23' Cristiano Ronaldo, (0-2) 76' Higuain

Real Madrid did exactly what they had to. In and out of the Sardinero with three points in the kitty, allowing them to move into El Clasico level on points with Barcelona, with a one goal advantage. They also managed to achieve goal number 100 for the season, and edged closer to that 107 league goal mark set 20 years ago. Their deadly duo account for more than half of those goals, as Cristiano Ronaldo and Higuain, who else, scored the two goals that were enough to see off a limited Racing Santander. Cristiano won and scored a penalty halfway through the first half, but they were made to sweat before making the win safe courtesy of a glorious throughball by Guti and a routine finish from Gonzalo Higuain. It was pretty but it didn't need to be. On form you would have to label Barcelona as favourites for next weeks clash of the titans. Although we all know form doesnt count for much in games like this. With Ronaldo and Higuain around Real Madrid will always have goals in them. It promises to be a belter. 6 days of press frenzy await.

Atletico Madrid 3 - 0 Deportivo La Coruña
(1-0) 22' Juanito, (2-0) 56' Forlan, (3-0) 60' Thiago

What better way to prepare for Thursdays make or break clash against Valencia, than by sweeping aside a Depor side in terminal decline. Atletico Madrid didn't have to work hard for tonights victory,  but they did just what was required to warm up for their Europa League quarter final this coming week. An early goal from recalled Juanito opened the scoring after a fine cross from Simao. Diego Forlan sentenced the match just after the break, in a peacemaking act with the Vicente Calderon, before Thiago rounded things off after a Reyes-esque run from a rejuvenated Tomas Ujfalusi. David De Gea underlined how important he'll be in their chase for silverware with some stunning saves as Atletico kept a welcome clean sheet. The defence has shored up, allowing the strikers to do their job. It's all coming together nicely for Quique Sanchez Flores.

Valencia 3 - 0 Osasuna
(1-0) 47' Joaquin, (2-0) 89' Villa, (3-0) 93' Villa (p)

Valencia have third place in La Liga all but wrapped up with a tight match in the Mestalla that was made to look more comfortable by two late strikes from 'El Guaje', David Villa. The only difference between the two sides was their accuracy infront of goal, with Joaquin putting Valencia on course to three points with a deft flick just after halftime. Villa added two strikes late on, one from the spot after he was brought down by Ricardo to take his tally to 28 in all competitions. Osasuna had their chances, but were left to rue misses from Camuñas and Aranda as their early season form has deserted them as the season comes to a close.

Sporting Gijon 2 - 2 Xerez
(1-0) 13' Rivera, (1-1) 52' Bermejo, (2-1) 56' De Las Cuevas, (2-2) 79' Alustiza

Xerez just refuse to lie down and with this point in El Molinon, continue to dream of survival. Nestor Gorosito would have targeted all three before kick-off, but after seeing how the match unfolded, a point was a bonus for a Xerez side that was outplayed by Sporting, and were gifted a route back into the match after a monumental error from Rivera, who had opened the scoring earlier on and was by far the matches star performer. Regardless if they stay up or not, Xerez have salvaged a huge amount of pride from a season that was spiralling out of control under former coach 'Cuco' Ziganda.

Real Valladolid 0 - 2 Villarreal

(0-1) 9' Angel, (2-0) 59' Nilmar

Desparate times for Real Valladolid. In previous years they have scrapped and fought to remain in the Primera Division. This year they are severely lacking in fight, belief and confidence and even have their own fans on their back. The situation at the Jose Zorilla is critical after another defeat at the hands of Villarreal who hit the hosts with two suckerpunches before and after the break. The first was a scorcher from Angel, with the second a pinpoint header from Nilmar, who could well be one to watch for next season as he continues to settle into life in La Liga. Valladolid were tormented all afternoon by a familiar face as Joseba Llorente ran rings around the home defence. How they miss his goals and guile. The match ended on a sour note with Medjunanin gesticulating to the crowd in response to incessant booing and jeering, spurred on by sightings of the players out on the town between matches.

Getafe 1 - 1 Espanyol

(1-0) 27' Manu, (1-1) 50' Osvaldo

Pedro Leon for Spain? The winger can hardly do more to stake a claim for a place in the squad and is surely a safer bet than Albert Riera. Game of two halves with Getafe controlling the first half and going in at the break 1-0 up through Manus strike, courtesy of yet another assist from Pedro Leon. Espanyol came out a different side in the second half and were unlucky not to go on and win the match after Osvaldos spectacular strike from the left corner of the box. The Argentine loan signing from Bologna has been a revelation in the second half of this season.

Almería 1 - 1 Mallorca

(1-0) 4' Uche, (1-1) 87' Webo

Real Madrid fight back to take the derby honours against Atletico

Real Madrid 3 - 2 Atletico Madrid
(0-1) 10' Reyes, (1-1) 49' Alonso, (2-1) 55' Arbeloa, (3-1) 62' Higuaín, (3-2) 67' Forlán

Real Madrid leapfrog Barca yet again after an action-packed derby against Atletico Madrid. 'Los Rojiblancos' even managed to make it to halftime a goal to the good after Jose Antonio Reyes' confident finish past Casillas, but from that point on there was only one team in it. Atletico inexplicably retreated into their own half, and Real Madrid took control. De Gea had to be at his best to ensure Atleti started the second half in the lead, but within 17 minutes they found themselves 3-1 down as Alonso, Arbeloa and Higuain all found the net with Real Madrid threatening to run riot. Higuains goal will have especially angered Quique as farcical errors from Thiago (who had played well up to that point) and Assuncao allowed Higuain a free run on goal, and the Argentine rarely fails to find the back of the net when one on one, and tonight was no different. Diego Forlán quickly made it 3-2 after a crazy handball by Xabi Alonso was punished with a penalty (but oddly not even a yellow card), but bar a chance for Forlán with only seconds remaining, that was as close as it would get for Atletico. It's looking increasingly like El Clasico on April 10th is going to be the defining match in this seasons Liga battle.

Villarreal 3 - 0 Sevilla
(1-0) 4' Rossi (2-0) 17' Llorente (3-0) 90' Pires

Sevilla are slowly but surely falling out of the Champions League race as they fell to another morale-sapping defeat at the hands of Villarreal. With Jesus Navas and Diego Perotti out, Sevilla lack a plan B, with Luis Fabiano and Alvaro Negredo starved of service. Villarreal on the other hand were inspired, with Cani, Ibergaza, Rossi and Nilmar simply too much to handle for Sevillas back four. Guiseppe Rossi got the first, running onto Nilmars pass, whilst Joseba Llorente took advantage of another assist from the Brazilian to put the match out of sight for the visitors. Luis Fabiano had a couple of chances to half the deficit, but shot uncharacteristically straight at the keeper on both occasions. Late sub Robert Pires then put the icing on the cake for Juan Garridos men as he slipped the ball past the onrushing Palop to give the scoreline a more realistic reflection. As the Submarine rises towards the European spots, Sevilla see their Champions League ambitions take another blow. A team short on confidence and ideas, Antonio Alvarez has a huge job on his hands.

Xerez 3 - 0 Real Valladolid

(1-0) 1' Victor Sanchez, (2-0) 35' Michel, (3-0) 71' Bermejo (p)

This was supposed to be the last chance saloon for Xerez, as defeat to a direct rival like Real Valladolid would spell almost certain relegation. Just as well the team from Chapin are saving the best for last as they chalked up their eleventh point out of the last 18 available in their search of a footballing miracle. Few people give them a chance but try telling that to the Xerez players, as they close the gap on Real Valladolid to two points and are now only seven away from Real Zaragoza who sit just above the bottom three. Victor Sanchez set them on the road to victory with a goal after only a minute following good work from little Fabiano Orellana. Momo then sent over a superb free-kick which left Michel with the simple task of nodding past Justo Villar, as the Real Valladolid defence crumbled. If todays performance is anything to go by, Valladolid are doomed, as they hardly created a noteworthy chance in the first half, with Manucho an isolated figure upfront. The second half saw much of the same, as Xerez had various chances to extend their lead, and did so with 20 minutes left after a dubious penalty decision from controversial ref Perez Burrul. From where I was sat it looked like Mario Bermejo slipped as he rounded Justo Villar, but Burrul gave the penalty and sent the keeper off. With all their subs already used, Medjunanin went in goal, only to pick the ball straight out of the net as Bermejo made no mistake from the spot. Chapin then went into party mode. The great escape is still very much alive.

Deportivo la Coruña 1 - 3 Getafe

(0-1) 21' Miku, (0-2) 32' Ze Castro, (0-3) 57' Miku, (1-3) 71' Riki

Osasuna 1 - 0 Almeria

(1-0) 20' Pandiani

Espanyol 0 - 0 Sporting Gijon

Xerez stun Sevilla in the Sanchez Pizjuan: Time up for Manolo Jimenez?

Sevilla 1 - 1 Xerez
(1-0) 63' Kanoute (p), (1-1) 92' Gioda

Xerez sprung one of the surprises of the season as they scored a last minute goal to cancel out Frederic Kanoutes earlier penalty. They may well be suffering from a chronic bout of injuries, but there's no hiding the fact that Sevilla fell desparately short tonight. Without Luis Fabiano, Jesus Navas and Diego Capel they were already lacking creativity upfront, but when Diego Perotti pulled up with a muscle strain, the situacion was critical. He was closely followed by midfield warrior Dider Zokora and suddenly it looked decidely bleak for a team striving to make the final Champions League place.

Right now that looks like a big ask for a side that is completely bereft of confidence. Alvaro Negredo is struggling badly, a slight worry for Del Bosque as the World Cup looms. The back four is uncharacteristically porous. Errors are even creeping into the previously impenetrable Andrés Palop. At the other end of the spectrum, Xerez showed tremendous fighting spirit to grab a point from a ground where no-one gave them a chance. Leandro Gioda got them the equaliser at the death after a scramble in the area, but truth be told, they gave Palop a fright on more than one occasion during the match, and their continuing fight for survival is really beginning to gather pace. Carlos Calvo revolutionised his team when he came on, and don't be surprised if this nippy lad from Madrid is whisked off if and when Xerez drop down a level. Another man on the move in the near future could well be Manolo Jimenez. The fans gave him a hard time after the defeat to CSKA Moscow, so the pressure must now be at boiling point. A paltry draw at home against the leagues whipping boys will not go down well. And president Jose Maria Del Nido is not a man to pussyfoot around a tough decision.

Sporting Gijon 2 - 1 Deportivo La Coruña

(1-0) 30' Bilic, (1-1) 65' Adrian, (2-1) 94' Diego Castro (p)

Real Madrid fight back to go three points clear

Real Madrid 3 - 1 Sporting Gijon

(1-0) 53' Barral, (1-1) 54' Van der Vaart, (2-1) 57' Alonso, (3-1) 68' Higuain

Real Madrid rattled off their 14th consecutive league victory in the Santiago Bernabeu this season, as they came from behind to beat a plucky Sporting Gijon. The home fans certainly won't have relished a drab first half, and things got even worse after the break when an exquisite pass over the top from Camacho sent David Barral through on goal with the striker composing himself before firing an unstoppable shot past Iker Casillas. But back came Madrid only a minute later with a goal that had more than a hint of controversy about it, as Rafael Van der Vaart appeared to handle the ball in the box before shooting in after Juan Pablo could only parry Cristianos rocket of a free-kick. Then Real Madrid went straight into the lead, after a prodigious leap from Cristiano Ronaldo flicked on a corner towards an unmarked Xavi Alonso who made no mistake with his header from close range. Gonzalo Higuain rounded things off and made the points safe with a dashing run and shot, which takes his league total for the season to 20. They might not be setting the world alight, but they sure know how to grind out those league points, with Barcelona now obliged to get a win away to Real Zaragoza tomorrow. Advantage Real Madrid in the race for La Liga.

Xerez 2 - 1 Tenerife

(1-0) 7' Bermejo, (2-0) 15' Aythami, (2-1) 49' Nino

In terms of quality it was like watching a third division match, but Xerez won't care one bit as they grabbed three points that allows them to continue believing in the impossible. In all reality, Xerez staying up is impossible, especially when you think that they still have to travel to Sevilla, Valencia, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid before the season comes to a close. Even so, what Nestor Gorosito has achieved since he walked into the madhouse has been more than noteworthy, and Xerez fans will surely be thinking what could have been if we had started the season with the Argentine manager in charge. Mario Bermejo got the first early doors, but from where I was sitting it looked like the keeper Aragoneses took his header comfortably on the chest; the linesman must have seen him fall back behind the line. Aythami quickly made it two after some chaos in the Tenerife box, and it finally looked as if were about to witness a rout. The rout never materialised, and once midfield enforcer Sidi Keita was forced off injured, it all got very untidy in the middle of the park. Tenerife were awarded a dodgy looking penalty towards the end of the first half, but in the midst of pandamonium-like noise, newly restored keeper/hero Chema came to rescue, pushing away Ninos tame effort. Nino wasnt to be completely denied though, as the tiny striker somehow beat two huge centre halves to a header early in the second half, which cut the defecit. Tenerife probed for much of the second half, but the equaliser never came. So, can Xerez do the unthinkable and stay up? It would be the stuff of legend, but those away matches will surely put pay to any small hopes that still linger.

Espanyol 2 - 0 Sevilla
(1-0) 8' Osvaldo, (2-0) 60' Osvaldo

Is this the end of Manolo Jimenez as Sevilla boss? A tame defeat for the Andalucians as Espanyol ran the show in the Estadio Cornella. Espanyol unbeaten at home since losing 0-4 to Racing in December, a run that will surely secure their survival in La Liga.

Deportivo La Coruña 0 - 2 Real Valladolid
(0-1) 39' Nauzet (0-2) 91' Medjunanin

Real Valladolid kept a clean sheet for the first time in 17 matches as they overcame a disappointing Deportivo la Coruña in the Riazor. The win keeps Valladolid very much alive in their fight for top flight survival as Depor take a step back in their hunt for the Europa League positions.

Athletic Bilbao 2 - 2 Getafe
(1-0) 13' Orbaiz, (1-1) 32' Manu, (2-1) 81' Llorente, (2-2) 86' Pedro Leon

Crazy match at the San Mames, as Getafe dominated but saw themselves obliged to fight back to earn a draw in the dying minutes. Orbaiz and Miguel Torres were sent off for either side as a feisty encounter ended in a draw that does little for either teams European ambitions.

La Liga Sunday: Atletico Madrid saved by last gasp Ibra

Real Zaragoza 1 - 1 Atlético Madrid

(1-0) 5' Jarosik, (1-1) 92' Ibra

Real Zaragoza were left to rue their inability to sink ten men Atlético as they succumbed to a last gasp leveller from substitute Ibra. 'Los Maños' were hardly spectacular, but they had the better of the chances as Atlético Madrid failed to live up to the lofty expectation their recent form has created. Teixeira Vitienes delivered a refereeing performance of such inaptitute, with the faltering reputation of Spanish referees plunging to new depths as he perplexed everyone with some astonishingly poor decisions. Poor Jose Antonio Reyes the principle victim, as the inspired winger was kicked into the ground with Real Zaragoza employing some robust tactics to stem the Atlético tide. Jiri Jarosik had headed Zaragoza into an early lead, and when an utterly fed-up Reyes was sent off for flinging out a stray elbow which connected with Eliseu, the home team looked on course to collect a much-needed three points. That was until late substitute Ibra powered in a header in the dying seconds from Jurados cross, to rescue ten-men Atletico a point. Shame is, the match will be remembered for some inept refereeing which saw the man in black, so horribly out of his depth, show nine yellow cards.

Malaga 2 - 4 Xerez
(0-1) 5' Momo (p), (1-1) 40' Duda, (2-1) 55' Valdo, (2-2) 72' Momo, (2-3) 75' Gioda, (2-4) 94' Orellana

Finally! That first ever away win in La Liga that Xerez have been waiting for all season has arrived. And what a match it was, as they surprised Málaga in La Rosaleda. Xerez displayed the grit and determination that has made them everyones second favourite team (not least because you're almost guaranteed six points against them). Their first came courtesy of a refereeing decision that I'd like to see happen more often. Defenders simply cannot be allowed to grab chunks of shirt if and when they please. Today Ivan Gonzalez paid the ultimate price as his tug in the box allowed Momo to slot home his first from the spot. Talented Portuguese winger, Duda, brought Malaga level when he finished off a clinical counter, and when Valdo headed them infront, it looked like Xerez were en route to yet another away defeat. It got worse when Emilio Armenteros quite possibly beat some record when he lasted all of 30 seconds after coming on as a sub, after being sent straight back to the stands for elbowing Ivan Gonzalez, but to their eternal credit, La Ligas bottom club fought back in style. First Malaga were reduced to ten themselves as Duda handled a goalbound Sidi Keita shot. Munua saved Momos second penalty, but the winger made no mistake from the rebound. Leandro Gioda then slotted in from a corner before Chilean Fabian Orellana secured the three points with a classy chip in injury time. The Chapin Army still dream of the great escape.

Athletic Bilbao 2 - 0 Real Valladolid

(1-0) 26' Toquero, (2-0) 36' Toquero

Mallorca 3 - 0 Sporting Gijon
(1-0) 12' Julio Alvarez, (2-0) 75' Victor, (3-0) 89' Webo

Espanyol 0 - 0 Villarreal

How this match ended goalless is anyones guess. The first 15 minutes saw a whole host of chances and it couls so easily have been 3-3 at the break, but with Carlos Kameni and Diego Lopez on top of thair game, the ball just wouldn't go in. Lopez, inparticular, played a blinder and with the World Cup on the horizon, the Villarreal shotstopper will give Del Bosque a major headache as he chooses between him and Sevillas Andres Palop. The two teams proved today that a 0-0 draw really can be entertaining.

Osasuna 0 - 0 Getafe

Another no score draw, and whilst not quite as thrilling as that enjoyed at the Estadio Cornella, those at the Reyno Navarra enjoyed a match filled with attacking intent, but with little end product infront of goal. Ustari was the busier of the two keepers as Osasuna, with Camuñas and Juanfran at the forefront, peppered his goal with shots, but the Argentinian was equal to everything they threw at him. Michel let Getafe down, by resting two of his topguns, with Pedro Leon and Parejo starting the match on the bench. He was also late in sending on his troops as the match petered out. With relegation and Europe almost out of the question for both sides, neither will be particularly dismayed with two points dropped.

La Liga Saturday: Barcelona steamroll Racing Santander (Highlights)

Barcelona 4 - 0 Racing Santander

(1-0) Iniesta, (2-0) Henry, (3-0) Marquez, (4-0) Thiago

A comfortable, if unspectacular, victory for Barcelona against a Racing Santander side that looked beaten from the start. Barca moved the ball around well in the first half, even without their midfield crafstman Xavi Hernandez, but it was the helping hand of an absent Racing defence that allowed Iniesta to slot his side infront (unbelievably his first goal since that famous strike against Chelsea last season), before two beautifully crafted free-kicks from Thierry Henry and Rafael Marquez put them out of sight before half-time. The second half saw Barcelona take the foot off the accelerator, as you would expect with their Champions League tie against Stuttgart coming up this week. Youngster Thiago put the icing on the cake with a deflected goal in the dying minutes, his first in a Barca shirt. Sergio Canales didnt enjoy his first visit to the Camp Nou as a Real Madrid player, as Racing Santander offered very little in a one-sided affair. The pressure is now on Real Madrid as they prepare to host Villarreal tomorrow, with their rivals now 5 points ahead once more.

 

 

Deportivo La Coruña 2 - 1 Xerez

(1-0) 3' Guardado, (2-0) 7' Riki, (2-1) 36' Bermejo

 

It's a sad yet aweinspiring sight. Xerez slide closer to La Segunda with every passing weekend, but aren't they doing themselves proud. 2-0 down after only seven minutes, they could be forgiven for folding, but they simply roll their sleeves up and fight as if their lives depend on it. They may lack the quality, but if leagues were decided by guts and determination, they'd be challenging for the title. Guardado struck a penalty after only three minutes, and the impressive Riki doubled their lead four minutes later as Xerez threatened to self-destruct. But typified by the battling warrior Sidi Keita, Xerez brought themselves back in with with Mario Bermejos effort and more than played their part in a thoroughly entertaining match that flowed from end to end. It says it all that Xerez were sent from the Riazor with the sound of the Depor support singing 'Xerez es de Primera'. Heartwarming.

 

Mallorca 1 - 3 Sevilla

(1-0) 5' Mario Suarez, (1-1) 23' Jesus Navas, (1-2) 56' Dragutinovic, (1-3) 62' Perotti

One of the surprise success stories of the season so far ended tonight as Mallorca fell to their first home defeat of the season against Sevilla, leaving Real Madrid as the only undefeated home side in the league. Mallorca took an early lead through Mario Suarez, but from then on it was all about Jesus Navas, as he levelled the scores after a mix-up between Aourate and his defender, with the dimuntive winger running riot down Mallorcas left hand side, and even playing a part in Sevillas third when he delivered a pinpoint cross for Perottis decisive third goal. The match was marked by some pretty rigourous refereeing, which saw Alvaro Negredo (again), Ivan Ramis and Didier Zokora sent off. As Mallorca fall away from the fight for the Champions League spots, and Depor continue to blow hot and cold, it seems as if the race for third now has its very own two-horse race between Valencia and Sevilla.

La Liga Saturday: Cristiano Ronaldo scores double in Xerez

Xerez 0 - 3 Real Madrid
(0-1) 64' Arbeloa, (0-2) 70' Cristiano Ronaldo, (0-3) 71' Cristiano Ronaldo

Real Madrid didn't falter as they successfully added extra pressure on Barcelona at the top of La Liga. It wasn't pretty and it took them until the 64th minute to make the breakthrough, but once they did they devastated a worn-out Xerez side that had given as good as they had got. The atmosphere inside Chapin was predictably hostile and they got right behind their side as they got stuck into Real Madrids new galacticos. Xerez even had the better of the chances in the first 45 minutes as Momo and Carlos Calvo could easily have out their side infront. But in the second half, they tired badly and after Arbeloa had put Madrid infront with his first goal in Spanish football, finishing off a slick move with a wonderfully calm finish, Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaká took over. For Cristianos first, Kaká whipped over a lovely ball that Ronaldo bullet-headered into the net. One minute later the Brazilian repeated the trick with a squared pass in the area that Ronaldo tucked away with minimal fuss. Thats what €150 million gets you. The biggest disappointment of the match was Gonzalo Higuaín, who went completely missing and was subbed after 66 minutes. But today was all about Cristiano as a ruthless Madrid leave Jerez with three points in the bag, with an injury-hit Barca under pressure to maintain their five point advantage at Atlético tomorrow.

Villarreal 2 - 1 Athletic Bilbao

(1-0) 5' Capdevila, (1-1) 24' Gabilondo, (2-1) 45' Nilmar

A fantastic game of football that was soured by an absolutely disgraceful last 5 minutes that saw 4 red cards and a missed penalty. Joan Capdevila put the Yellow Submarine infront, slotting past Iraizoz after a delicious dummy from Robert Pires put him through one on one. The full-back is deadly infront of goal. Then Gabilondo responded for Athletic with a stunning goal from outside the area the gave Diego Lopez no chance. Villarreal looked more like there former self as they set about Bilboa with the verve and tenacity of old. Brazilian striker then put the home side back ahead as he raced onto Canis inch perfect pass to slot in. He could have had a couple more in the second half, but whilst the scoreline didnt budge, plenty of players gave themselves an early shower as the game turned into a brawl in the final few minutes. Iker Munian won his side a penalty with one minute left, with what looked like a dive, but Iraola was unable to covert the penalty; he fifth missed penalty in his fledgling career. Then the match turned nasty. First to go were Godin and Javi Martinez. The Bilbao midfielder was shown a red for a raised elbow, whilst Godins red looked less clear, but must have been for something he did in the aftermath. Joaquin Caparros went sent off for protesting, and Orbaiz quickly followed for a disgraceful tug of Marco Rubens hair.

Sporting Gijon 1 - 1 Valencia

(1-0) 5' Diego Castro, (1-1) 76' Mata

Xerez v Real Madrid: David v Goliath

Tonight Chapin will see security the like of which it has never seen before. Local derbies against Cadiz will have provoked increased police presence in the past, but the visit of Cristiano Ronaldo and company will surpass even the strictest measures seen at Xerez, as they host Real Madrid for the first time in their history. But whilst there is unlikely to be any problems in that regard, Real Madrid are seriously concerned about the state of the Chapin pitch. As you can see from the photo, it's seen better days, and is certainly no pitch for first division football. But they should count themselves lucky, they only have to play on it once. Xerez have to play on it every other week. But to say thats the main reason for their demise this season would be churlish. Goals, or a lack of, is the reason they are where they are. Gonzalo Higuaín has scored the same amount of goals this year than the whole of the Xerez squad. Although with 4 goals in their last two matches, there is reason for optimism within the blue army ranks.

Tonight sees the return of Cristiano Ronaldo who has been suspended for the last two league matches. Madrid achieved six points out of six in that time with convincing wins against Depor and Getafe, but even so all eyes will be, and have been, on CR9 after a turbulent couple of weeks following his run in with Mtiligas face. But his return is soured by an injury crisis that has robbed the Madrileños of several players. Real Madrid come to town minus Karim Benzema, Guti, Pepe, Rafeal Van der Vaart and Gago. Still, with a midfield diamond of Kaká, Xabi Alonso, Granero and Lass topped off with Higuain and Ronaldo up top, they are a match for any side in world football, let alone little Xerez.

So can Xerez do the unthinkable and beat Real Madrid? To be fair to my adopted team, even a draw would be a spectacular result. It says it all when you think that last summer, as Real Madrid were chasing the biggest names in football, Xerez were looking to contract a gardener. Looking at the state of the grass, they didnt break the bank with that signing. The pace and trickery of Momo and Carlos Calvo will be vital, as they look to exploit Marcelos positional frailty and Arbeloas lack of speed. My new hero Sidi Keita will need to be at his hustling best, throwing himself into tackles as his life depended on it as he attempts to stem the creativity of Alonso and Kaka. Mario Bermejo simply cannot let a chance go begging and the defensive line cannot go to sleep as they have so many times this season. The pitch will play a huge role, as it almost converts the game into a cup tie, and we all know what happened to Real Madrid when they made that fateful journey down the A5 to Alcorcón in October. The upper realms of the club have let us down again, charging a ridiculous €55 for entry to season-ticket holders, but one things for sure, the players will do us proud. Let the battle commence.

La Liga Sunday Highlights: Real Zaragoza lift themselves out the relegation zone

Real Zaragoza 2 - 1 Sevilla

(1-0) 30' Contini, (1-1) 32' Kanoute, (2-1) 40' Negredo (o.g)

Sevilla clearly had their minds focused elsewhere as Real Zaragoza recorded an important win that lifted them out of the relegation zone. Manolo Jimenez rested Luis Fabiano and Jesus Navas, but the Sevilla team still had enough quality to trouble a newly-assembled Zaragoza outfit. They even managed to pull level only two minutes after going behind to Continis foirst goal for his new club, but a moment of indecision from striker Alvaro Negredo saw him divert the ball past Andres Palop for what proved to be the winning goal. Real Zaragoza will be pleased with what was probably their best performance of the season so far, but they were helped by an impotent Sevilla side who clearly wanted to get the game out of the way before their cup semi-final second leg against Getafe; a game that Stankevicius and Negredo will miss through suspension having seen red tonight.

Athletic Bilbao 3 - 2 Xerez
(1-0) 2' Muniain, (1-1) 10' Moreno, (1-2) 40' Bermejo, (2-2) 64' Llorente, (3-2) 88' Llorente

It's so painfully predictable, but once I saw Xerez 1-2 up at half-time, I just knew they would throw it away. They've finally got the knack of sticking the ball in the net (thats four in two now), but regardless of Renans best efforts, they find it impossible to keep the ball out of their own. Iker Muniain got Athletic off to the perfect start when he nodded in Toqueros cross, but credit to the Andalucians as they got right back in it with a screamer by veteran Vicente Moreno. Bermejo tapped in to give Xerez a surprise half time lead, but the second half was all Athletic and they got the two goals they needed for victory through their lethal international marksman, Fernando Llorente. Momo, Carlos Calvo, Keita and Vicente Moreno all played their hearts out and ran around as if their lives depended on it, but careless errors at the back get punished in La Liga and it's onto Real Madrid at home next saturday.

Racing Santander 1 - 1 Atlético Madrid
(0-1) 24' Forlán, (1-1) 36' Colsa

Strange how often two teams fighting out a cup tie also meet each other straight away in La Liga. Sandwiched inbetween their Copa del Rey semi-final Atlético Madrid and Racing Santander fought out a league encounter which was characterised by defensive mistakes. Infact both goals were the result of errors from both back fours as Forlán took advantage of a woeful attempt at an offside trap, whilst Colsa pounced upon yet another foul-up by underfire defender Perea. Racing were the only team who then went for the three points whilst Atletico set about conserving energy for this weeks second-leg; strange when you consider they take a 4-0 advantage to the Sardinero. Quique sat Sergio Agüero on the bench once more as he played Forlán alone upfront. A luxury Atletico surely cannot afford themselves as they sit 12th in La Liga.

Almería 3 - 1 Sporting Gijon
(0-1) 12' Diego Castro (p), (1-1) 15' Cruzat, (2-1) 42' Cisma, (3-1) 80' Guilherme

Entertaining encounter with Almeria doing a Barcelona on us and winning having played a large part of the match with ten men. It was a remarkable turnaround from Juanma Lillas men, after a handball from Chico in the 11th minute saw him sent off, with Castro converting the penalty to leave Almeria with a mountain to climb. But climb it they did, levelling almost immediately through Cruzat and even having the audacity to take the lea before the break when Cisma hit a shot that Juan Pablo simply had to stop, but contrived to let it in, unaware that the shot was on target. Sporting offered very little in the second half and went further behind when Guilherme sealed the points for the home side. Manuel Preciado will not be a happy man.

Mallorca 1 - 0 Villarreal
(1-0) 81' Nunes

Mallorca made it ten wins out of ten in the ONO Estadi, with only them and Real Madrid able to boast a clean sweep of home league wins. Villarreal were unlucky to leave the island empty-handed, but they simply didnt make the most of their opportunites, whilst Mallorca scored the only decent one that came their way; centre-back Nunes getting the goal with a header from Julio Alvarezs cross when only ten minutes remained. Nilmar and Llorente missed a hatful of chances for the Yellow Submarine, as Rossi was forced to miss the match due to a personal matter. Jose Carlos Garrido was unable to change Villarreals fortune on his debut, and he has a huge task ahead of him as he seeks to inject confidence into a beleagured side, so used to challenging for the Champions League spots in recent years.

Osasuna 1 - 0 Tenerife
(1-0) 47' Aranda

Málaga 0 - 0 Deportivo La Coruña

La Liga Winter Transfer Window 2010: Real Zaragoza break the bank

The protagonists of the 2010 Winter transfer window has been without a shadow of doubt, Real Zaragoza. Having released Ewerthon, López Vallejo, Songo'o, Roberto Ayala and Braulio, they have brought in Edmilson, Roberto, Jarosik, Eliseu, Suazo, Colunga and Contini, in order to arrest their slide into La Segunda for the second time in three years. Quite where they have found the funds for all these new signings remains to be seen, but the fans will at least be glad that the club have taken action after a horrific first half of the season, with the new signings making an immediate impact against Tenerife last weekend. The good news is that Jermaine Pennant has not only survived the axe, but has cemented his place in the side with some racy performances that have won over new coach Jose Aurelio Gay.

This weekend also saw the sacking of two managers in the shape of Ernesto Valverde and Jose Luis Mendilibar. Real Valladolid have already replaced Mendilibar with Onésimo, while Villarreal have placed Juan Carlos Garrido in charge of the Yellow Submarine until the end of the season.


La Liga Winter Transfer Signings 2009/2010

Atlético Madrid: Tiago (Juventus), Pacheco (Rayo), Salvio (Lanús)
Espanyol: Osvaldo (Bologne)
Getafe: Miku (Valencia)
Malaga: Walter* (Nástic), Caicedo* (Sporting Lisbon), Jordi Pablo
Osasuna: Echaide (Huesca)
Racing Santander: Iván Bolado (Free Agent)
Sevilla: Stankevicius*(Sampdoria)
Sporting Gijon: Smiljanic*(Espanyol)
Valencia: Chori Domínguez (Rubin Kazan)
Real Valladolid: Henrique Sereno (Vitoria de Guimaraes), Keko*(Atlético), Del Horno (Valencia)
Villarreal: Marcos Gullón (Villarreal B)
Xerez: Alustiza* (Chacarita Juniors), Vigneri* (Puebla)
Real Zaragoza: Edmilson*(Palmeiras), Roberto (Atlético), Jarosik (Krylya Sovetov), Eliseu (Lazio), Suazo (Monterrey), Colunga*(Recreativo), Contini (Nápoles)

* Loan Signing

La Liga Sunday Highlights: Atletico Madrid downed by lowly Malaga

Atletico Madrid 0 - 2 Malaga

(0-1) 3' Duda, (0-2) 70' Javi Lopez

Perhaps they had one eye on their Copa del Rey Semi-final this week, or maybe they took a visit from lowly Malaga too lightly. Either way Atlético Madrid fell to a morale-sapping defeat at the hands of a team that started the day in the relegation zone. Duda hit the first early doors after a teasing cross from the right by Gamez, slipping the ball past De Gea from a tight angle. Atlético had plenty of possession but failed to create any sort of sustained danger and they were punished on 70 minutes when Javi Lopez struck the fatal second. The Copa del Rey and a late push for Europe represents all thats left for Atléticos season.

Sevilla 2 - 1 Valencia
(1-0) 21' Negredo, (2-0) 69' Negredo, (2-1) 90' Navarro

The battle for the Champions League spots ended with Sevilla earning the bragging rights, and closing the gap on Valencia to three points. They also hauled themselves about Mallorca to give a familiar feel to the top four. Negredo set them on the way with a tap-in following a flick on from a corner. His second was sumptuous, as Jesus Navas added another assist to his repertoire back-heeling to Negredo who then chipped Cesar from outside the box. David Villa was nowhere to be seen, as Valencia only really woke up after going two down. They got the goal which keeps their goal difference above Sevillas with a late Navarro header but they will be bitterly disappointed in letting a chance to stamp their authority on third place slip.

Villarreal 0 - 2 Osasuna
(0-1) 15' Juanfran, (0-2) 85' Juanfran

A shocking defensive display from Villarreal, summed up by the hapless Ángel Lopez, sealed Ernesto Valveredes fate as he was sacked shortly after the match. Osasuna hit the 'Yellow Submarine' with two breaks that both found former Real Madrid youth teamer Juanfran slotting past Diego Lopez. Camuñas and Monreal tore Villarreal apart down the left, as the home side offered little in attack and even less in defence. Camacho will be delighted with two away victories on the bounce as Osasuna seem to be saving themselves from their annual battle against the drop. For Villarreal the search begins for a new boss.

 

Xerez 2 - 1 Mallorca

(0-1) 23' Webo, (1-1) 52' Calvo, (2-1) 78' Calvo

Chapin went wild as Carlos Calvo scored two superb goals to give Xerez hope in their search of a miracle escape from the drop. Webo put Mallorca ahead as he planted an excellent diving header past the depairing Renan, and they had the chance to effectively kill off Xerezs hopes when Undiano Mallenco pointed to the spot after Aythami had been adjudged to have felled Aritz Aduriz in the area. The striker picked himself up to take the spotkick, but Renan produced a fantastic dive to repell his effort and the comeback was well and truely on. Xerez have struggled for goals this year, but Calvos first was an absolute scorcher. There appeared to be little on when he picked up the ball a full 30 yards out but he unleashed a rocket that flew past Arouate. The second was just as good as he danced his way into the box before slotting past the keeper. Can they really do it? Their next game against Bilbao away and their home match against Real Madrid in two weeks may give us a clue.

Tenerife 1 - 3 Real Zaragoza

(1-0) 48' Juanlu, (1-1) 76' Suazo (p), (1-2) 79' Colunga, (1-3) 82' Lafita

Tenerife were left to rue their lack of threat infront of goal as they only had a goal from Juanlu to show for their domiannt first 50 minutes. But Real Zaragoza only needed six minutes to smash three past Aragoneses and seal a invaluable three points away from home. The first two came from their new signings: Suazo finding the net from the spot after Arizmendi was tripped in the box, and Colunga dinking the ball over the keeper to mark a dream debut for 'Los Maños'. Lafita left the result in no doubt when he struck an angled beauty from way out, as the battle against the drop took a new twist.

Real Valladolid 1 - 1 Almeria

(0-1) 12' Cruzat, (1-1) 80' Arzo

Getafe 0 - 0 Racing Santander

La Liga Sunday: Cristiano Ronaldo - The good, the bad and the ugly

Real Madrid 2 - 0 Malaga

(1-0) 35' Cristiano Ronaldo, (2-0) 39' Cristiano Ronaldo

It takes them a while to get going, during which they are normally indebted to Casillas and poor finishing from their opponents, but it only takes a couple of flashes of excellence to get Real Madrid out of jail and on the road to three points. Today it was Cristiano Ronaldo who took on the responsibility and cracked in two goals to put Malaga out of sight. Yet his brilliance sometimes comes at a cost, and todays was an disgraceful elbow in the face of Mtiliga which earned him a red card and sees him banned from next weeks tricky match against Deportivo. The Galaticos are still not gelling as a unit (bar that sweet move for the first goal!), but as long as they can keep on Barcas tail, when the machine finally clicks they could certainly mount a serious challenge for the league. Trouble for Pelligrini is that it's taking far too long. Next weeks match at the Riazor will be pivotal.

READ ON FOR HIGHLIGHTS OF ALL TONIGHTS LA LIGA MATCHES

Getafe 1 - 0 Atletico Madrid
(1-0)38' Manu

Atlético Madrid had never lost before in the Coliseum, but today they never showed any signs of continuing that record with a performance so shocking, a 1-0 scoreline didnt do it justice. De Gea saved them on countless occasions, with Getafe deserving much more than the solitary goal from Manu, who is enjoying a sweet run of form. Assuncaos second sending off in ten days rounded off a dismal day for Atletico. Their defence isn't quite Real Zaragoza territory, but not far off. They'll be no Copa del Rey on this evidence.

Tenerife 0 - 0 Valencia

Valencia were expected to leave Tenerife with three points in the backpocket, yet it will be Tenerife who will look back on a lost opportunity to claim maximum points. Cesar, for once, played a blinder and pretty much took on Tenerife on his own as Silva, Mata and Pablo Hernandez didnt click as they so usually do, with even David Villa enduring a torrid afternoon. The 'alternative' for La Liga are not really an alternative at all, more like contenders for third.

Villarreal 4 - 2 Real Zaragoza

(1-0) 3' Capdevila, (2-0) 19' Nilmar (3-0) 25' Rossi, (3-1) 75' Eliseu, (3-2) 82' Lafita, (4-2) 87' Ibergaza

After being handed a pasting by Valencia last week, Ernesto Valverde must have smiled when he saw that their next fixture was Real Zaragoza at home. Guaranteed three points he must have thought. And he wasnt wrong as Zaragoza proved that whilst their defending is suspect at La Romareda, away from home it is non-existent. Whoever their defensive coach is, that's if there even is one, he should take a long hard look in the mirror, because the message is not getting across. 25 minutes of some of the most shocking defending you'll ever see saw Villarreal smash in three goals and a rout was on. Much to Mr Gays credit, his team came out in the second half psyched, and a comeback was on the cards as they brought it back to 3-2, only for Ibergaza to destroy the dream with three minutes left. This 'Chupete' Suazo character looks like more money well spent by Zaragoza....all those goals he's banging in.

Xerez 1 - 2 Osasuna

(1-0) 9' Monreal, (1-1) 22' Bermejo, (1-2) 83' Camuñas

Poor old Xerez. Before the match you feel a sense of renewed hope around the stadium. The stands were full, unusual for a match against Osasuna, the manager had named an attacking line-up the day before, and the players were on the pitch going through punishing drills for 45 minutes before the match. Nestor Gorosito has definitely brought in a higher level of professionalism around the club, but the sad truth is the players aren't up to the grade. They fell behind to a cracking early goal from Monreal, the young full-back striving to be involved in Spains South African adventure this summer. Xerez quickly hit back with a stunning goal of their own as Momo teed up Bermejo to round off an electric team move. Trouble for Xerez is that normally if you dont have quality you have to make up for it with physical presence and fitness levels akin to those of olympians. By the end they were running on empty, and ex-Xerez man Camunñas made them pay by slotting in with seven minutes left. They're going down.

Espanyol 1 - 1 Mallorca

(1-0) 49' Osvaldo, (1-1) 80' Borja Valero

Sporting Gijon 0 - 1 Racing Santander

(0-1) 44' Geijo