Barcelona’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over Real Valladolid has seen them extend their lead at the top of La Liga to seven points.

Second-placed Real Madrid, who hold a game in hand, are set to face Celta Vigo this evening — a potentially tricky fixture given that Celta remain in contention for European qualification.

With El Clásico scheduled for 11 May, the clash could become a decisive moment in the title race should Madrid fail to take all three points tonight.

How Barcelona Could Secure the Title Against Real Madrid

Should Real Madrid drop points against Celta Vigo, Barcelona could mathematically clinch the league title next weekend with a victory over their fierce rivals at the Camp Nou.

Currently, the Catalan giants sit atop the La Liga standings with 79 points, seven clear of Real Madrid on 72. Once Madrid play their game in hand this evening, both clubs will have four matches remaining.

If Los Blancos were to lose to Celta, they would remain on 72 points, meaning a win for Barcelona in El Clásico would stretch their lead to an unassailable 10 points with only three fixtures left — effectively crowning them champions.

Even a draw for Madrid tonight would leave them nine points adrift, and given Barcelona’s superior goal difference, the title would all but be secured for the Catalans.

However, if Real Madrid win their match, the title race will remain mathematically alive, even if Barcelona were to triumph in El Clásico.

In the meantime, Barcelona’s immediate focus will shift to this midweek’s crucial Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter Milan, where they must secure a win away from home to book their place in the final.