Spanish La Liga, Round 37: Plenty To Play For Even With The Title Race Over
Every team from 10th down in the table are still in danger of relegation, mathematically. In reality, three clubs are going to battle not to be the odd team out. Zaragoza (39 points), Getafe (40 points), or Deportivo (42 points) will all be looking for results this weekend to try to avoid joining Hércules and Almeria in the Spanish second division next season. Meanwhile Sevilla, Atlético Madrid and Espanyol are all in the mix for a Europa League spot.
All matches on Sunday at 3pm ET
Athletic Bilbao vs. Málaga
Bilbao sits in 5th with no chance of moving in the final Champions League spot, but there is still the Europa League to play for. Bilbao sits two points ahead of Sevilla and Atlético Madrid so they just need points at this juncture to hold on to their place. Málaga, who sent tenth, are likely safe from relegation.
Atlético Madrid vs. Hércules
Atlético needs points to earn a Europa League spot while from relegation this season. Atlético’s have been in poor form of late, having not won in the league since April. Hércules are relegated so there’s nothing left to play for except ffor pride and being the spoiler of Atlético’s European hopes.
Getafe vs. Osasuna
Getafe needs points to stay above the relegation zone while Osasuna are riding high off their amazing comeback against Sevilla on Wednesday, reversing a 2-0 deficit with the final two goals coming in the 87th and 89th minute. That victory might be enough to save Osasuna this season, but more points wouldn’t hurt.
Real Zaragoza vs Espanyol
Zaragoza is in the relegation zone in desperate needs of points, Espanyol haven’t been able to take full advantage of Atlético’s poor form to surpass them in the table. Both teams have something to play for, so this match could be entertaining.
The rest of the matches: Almeria vs. Mallorica, Barcelona vs. Deportivo La Coruña, Sevilla FC vs. Real Sociedad, Sporting Gijon vs. Racing Santander, Valencia vs. Levante, Vilarreal vs. Real Madrid
