La Liga, Week 31: Barcelona move one step closer to the league title

Mallorca scored a massive victory in their relegation six-pointer against Celta Vigo thanks to a stoppage time goal from Giovani Dos Santos.

Los Bermellones remain in 19th place but they are now even on points with Real Zaragoza and a point behind Granada in 17th. Celta drop to last place, four points from potential safety with seven games left to play.

A win over Madrid would be a nice prize though for Athletic Club and provide them a bit a boost down the stretch run of the season. However with several players suspended and Madrid having a nearly first choice group of players available for selection, things don’t exactly look rosy for Athletic Club. Bielsa will have striker Ibaí Gomez back from a groin injury and Markel Susaeta returns after serving a one-match ban.

Athletic Bllbao injuries and suspensions

The health of the team’s leading scorer Helder Postiga is a real concern but he is expected to play.

Real Zaragoza injuries and suspensions

Betis remain in sixth place, one point ahead of Malaga, but could drop behind the Anchovies depending on the outcome of their match this weekend.

The visitors got off to a flying start in the sixth minute when Jose Antonio Retes connected with Ivan Rakitic who sent a low shot past Adrián to put Sevilla up 1-0. Rakitic scored a second in the 19th minute on tapin after an excellent move and lay off from Álvaro Negredo.

The two most interesting matches in Spain this week bookend the schedule. Friday’s Seville Derby between Real Betis and Sevilla starts off the week, while things come to a close on Monday with a relegation six-pointer between Mallorca and Celta Vigo. Here’s a look at all the games this week.

(22:00 CET, 4:00 p.m. ET)