27-02-2008 La Liga Betting Preview - Matchday 26

La Liga’s title race was blown wide open last weekend when Real Madrid slumped to a third successive defeat, while Barcelona thrash Getafe 5-1. The gap between the great rivals is now only two points, so with a similar set of results this weekend, the balance of power could swing in Barca’s favour. Get closest to the action with up to 60% better La Liga betting odds at PinnacleSports.com.

Real Madrid suffered a shock defeat last weekend at home to Getafe which robbed them of their 100% home league record, and extended their losing streak to three games in all competitions. The alarm bells are now ringing at the Bernabeu, particularly with the crucial return Champions League fixture against Roma looming large on the horizon. The next few days could define the Galacticos whole season, and coach, Bernd Schuster’s future at the club.

The nature of the defeat was a concern, with Getafe taking advantage of Madrid’s complacency; Arjen Robben and team-mates were celebrating what they thought was a legitimate goal only to see the game continue with dire consequence. Los Blancos must travel to Recreativo Huelva on Saturday and put their poor form behind them. Recreativo have pulled themselves out of a slump taking seven points from their last three games, but they haven’t kept a clean sheet in nine games, which is a concern against Madrid’s strike power. PinnacleSports.com make Real Madrid favourites 1.980 (-0.5)*with Recreativo 1.943 (+0.5)* – a market priced to less than 102%.

Barca Building Head of Steam

Barcelona are building a strong head of steam in their charge to catch Real Madrid at the top of La Liga. Samuel Eto’o and Lionel Messi proved their importance to the side as they orchestrated a 5-1 win over hapless Levant last weekend, taking Barca to within two points of the top. Eto’o’s return from the African Cup of Nations, and Messi’s recovery from injury have been crucial to the Catalans improvement.

Frank Rijkaard’s side are now close to full strength, with only Mexican, Rafael Marquez, the notable absentee. They visit Atletico Madrid on Saturday who’s fortunes are going in the opposite direction. Los Colchoneros were dumped out of the UEFA Cup by Bolton Wanderers last Thursday, then suffered their fourth defeat in six La Liga games, losing 3-1 at Osasuna. Real Madrid won 2-0 at the Vicente Calderon Stadium near the end of January, which gives a useful line of form for this game. PinnacleSports.com price Barcelona favourites 2.060 (-0.5)*with Atletico Madrid 1.870 (+0.5)*

*All odds subject to change

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