The Blaugrana team has struggled to achieve more than one victory since November 6, and Atlético Madrid have now taken first place in the championship.
The first half of the La Liga season was marked by the ups and downs of Spain’s two biggest clubs, Barcelona and Real Madrid. One is trying to find his identity after several seasons in a footballing limbo, while the other finds himself with one of his most inconsistent starts in recent years.
After a good start in La Liga, the Blaugrana club has stumbled in its last few matches, having failed to secure more than one victory since November 6, with 2 draws, 2 defeats and only 1 victory in its 5 last championship matches.
This weekend, just before the winter break, Barcelona faced Leganés at home and suffered a 1-0 defeat, leaving the Catalans with no advantage at the top of the table and at risk of losing their position in the next match against Atlético Madrid.
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This part of the season has been characterized by the inconsistency of the Merengues, who seem to be losing the magic that previously distinguished them in terms of play and results.
On matchday 17, Rayo Vallecano hosted Carlo Ancelotti’s side in a match where the Whites had to come from behind, which ended in a 3-3 draw.
The Madrid managed to stabilize their performance in the league, picking up crucial points which, combined with Barcelona’s poor run and Atlético Madrid’s good form, put them in third position with a game in hand.
Currently, the European giant has hopes of climbing to the top by winning their late games and waiting for Barcelona and Atlético to share points when they meet.
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Before their commitment to the league, Real Madrid will look to fulfill their duty in the Intercontinental Cup final where they will face Pachuca this Wednesday, December 18.
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While everyone is scrutinizing the situations around Barcelona and Real Madrid, Atlético Madrid are preparing to be the surprise of the season with an impressive unbeaten run in La Liga since October 27.
With the combination of results, ‘Cholo’ Simeone’s Atleti find themselves sharing the top spot with 38 points and a game in hand that could secure them the championship lead.
Atlético Madrid face Barcelona in the next league matchday, and just before the winter break, a good result against the Blaugrana would propel the Rojiblancos to the top of the table, with the possibility of extending their lead over second place by 6 points once their late matches are filled.
