Sprint finish ahead for La Liga title

FC Barcelona have entered a crucial stage of the La Liga season, and they do so with an 8-point advantage over their nearest rivals, Atletico Madrid. The win against Los Colchoneros this past Sunday enabled them to extend their lead, with a further 15 and 16 points separating them from Real Madrid and Valencia, respectively. Since the introduction of three points for a win in 1995/96, no side has held such an advantage after Matchday 27 and not won the title.

It is a busy time for the sides at the top of the table. Barça, Atletico and Real Madrid could all potentially have additional European encounters to play, whilst only Valencia are focused solely on La Liga.

Barça will visit Sevilla and Vigo; Atletico play at the Bernabéu, Villarreal and Anoeta

Before the end of the campaign, Barça have six La Liga games to play at the Camp Nou, and five away from home. There is also a Copa del Rey final against Sevilla on 21 April -the same opponents they have to face in the league at the Sánchez Pizjuan. The second 'El Clásico' of the season takes place on 6 May at the Camp Nou.

Atletico play at the Bernabeu against Real Madrid on Matchday 31, as well as Celta at home this weekend.

Europe could be decisive

There are also European games to be played. Barça have the second leg of their Champions League Last 16 tie against Chelsea coming up, after the 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge last month.

Real Madrid have a 3-1 advantage over PSG going into their return meeting, and Atletico Madrid are one of the favourites to lift the Europa League this season: They play Lokomotiv Moscow on 8 and 15 March, and potentially have three more rounds to play.

For the moment, Barça are in the driving seat in the race for the LaLiga title. Eight 'finals' remain in the domestic competition.