(Football news) Rayo Vallecano defeated Barcelona 1-0 at the Camp Nou to do Real Madrid a massive favour. The result means that Real Madrid are just 1 point away from the titl. Los Blancos need a draw or a win over Espanyol on Saturday to clinch their 35th La Liga title. If Madrid do manage to get a result next weekend at the Bernabéu, then not only will they secure the title at home with 4 games to spare but they could also be given a guard of honour by arch rivals Atletico Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano. 

Rayo Vallecano scored from their very first attack of the game in the 8th minute as Isi Palazon set up Alvaro Garcia. Gavi had a brilliant chance to equalise right before half time but could only hit the woodwork. After falling behind 38 year old Dani Alves in the pecking order, Sergino Dest got a chance to start but was substituted at half time which is some sort of statement by Xavi. Barcelona's best chance came in the 70th minute when Ousmane Dembele's shot was cleared off the line by Nikola Maras. Barcelona had at the most 2 clear cut chances to equalise. The absence of Pedri is clearly felt in the midfield as the Catalan club are just not creating enough chances. 

It was yet again a lethargic and lacklustre display by the Blaugrana who have now lost 3 consecutive home games in all competitions. The loss increases the gap between Barcelona and Real Madrid to 15 points. The gap was 12 points when Ronald Koeman was sacked in October. Problems at the Camp Nou with fans boycotting the games is definitely a factor in all the losses. The loss against Frankfurt has definitely taken a toll on the Barcelona squad. Xavi needs to get things back on track as the Catalan club cannot afford to drop out of the top 4.

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