Barca’s slump throws open La Liga race

Second-placed Atletico have bridged a nine-point gap and are only behind Luis Enrique’s side due to their inferior head-to-head record as they prepare to visit Athletic Bilbao. 

Real are one point behind Barca who are experiencing their worst domestic form since 2003, losing three La Liga matches in a row and drawing one since banging in 15 goals in three crushing wins in early March. 

Real host fourth-placed Villarreal on Wednesday looking for an eighth consecutive league victory, immediately after Barcelona try to stop the rot at Deportivo La Coruna. 

From being a one-horse race, it now looks like being a thrilling three-way fight for the title and Atletico’s striker Fernando Torres said his side are reaping the rewards for never giving up even when Barca were streaking ahead.