1' min
It promises to be a thrilling Sunday in Spain as Matchday 32 of La Liga kicks off. With seven rounds left in the season, questions still loom over European qualification and the relegation battle. The standout fixture of the Easter weekend is undoubtedly Real Madrid vs Athletic Bilbao.
The Blancos are reeling from their Champions League elimination at the hands of Arsenal and now sit four points behind league leaders Barcelona. Their task won't be easy against a red-hot Athletic side currently occupying a Champions League spot.
Villarreal host Real Sociedad at the Estadio de la Cerámica in a crucial clash. The Yellow Submarine are looking to defend fifth place and secure a return to Europe's top competition, now officially within Spain’s grasp thanks to their second-place UEFA coefficient. Sociedad, just two points back, are chasing sixth place and have their own European aspirations.
Real Betis also have their eyes on a Champions League spot as they travel to Girona, a side still searching for safety. The Andalusians are three points behind Villarreal but have played one game more. Girona, meanwhile, are winless in five (three defeats and two draws) and desperate to regain form.
Osasuna, who have a shot at re-entering the European picture, visit bottom-side Valladolid, who are all but mathematically relegated. However, Osasuna’s away record is concerning: just one win in 15 matches on the road.
Sevilla, in free fall with four straight defeats, host Alavés in a must-win clash to keep their hopes of finishing eighth alive. The visitors, meanwhile, are focused on collecting vital points to move clear of the relegation zone and secure another season in La Liga.
