Alpha News

La Liga: Intense Battle for Top Spot – Real Madrid Faces Villarreal Challenge

Published January 24, 2026, 09:26

In La Liga, Real Madrid returned to winning ways with a 2-0 victory over Levante, while Barcelona suffered a 2-1 away defeat to Real Sociedad. Real Madrid is now just one point behind league leaders Barcelona. In the 21st matchday, Real Madrid faces a challenging away game against Villarreal, who are in excellent form. Barcelona, on the other hand, has a theoretically easier task as they host Oviedo. An interesting match is also expected between Sevilla and Athletic Bilbao, where former AEK coach Matias Almeyda will face off against former Olympiacos coach Ernesto Valverde. Athletic won the first round encounter 3-2. The full schedule for the 21st and next (22nd) matchdays has been released, with several crucial games expected to determine the course of the championship.