Real Madrid will look to maintain their recent momentum with a win at home to Villarreal on Wednesday. Just a few weeks ago their title hopes looked dead and buried, but an El Clásico victory has precipitated a total Barcelona collapse, leaving Zinedine Zidane's side just a point behind the Catalans and their Madrilenian rivals Atlético heading into the midweek round of matches.
Real Madrid vs. Villarreal 2016 live stream: Time, TV schedule and how to watch online
If all results go their way, Real Madrid could finish Wednesday top of the La Liga table.
Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images
Real may have won seven league games on the trot, though they should be wary of complacency against a Villarreal team that are flying high in fourth place. The Valencian outfit are enjoying a tremendously successful campaign, and are currently on course for what would be a highly impressive Champions League qualification. They’re not going to make life easy for their hosts at the Bernabéu.
Key player: Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid)
Cristiano Ronaldo has, rather predictably, been a crucial part of Real Madrid's recent resurgence. He's excelled since being restored to his favoured position on the left by Zidane, and has moved five goals clear of second-placed Luis Suárez at the top of the La Liga scoring charts. No one would be surprised if the legendary Portuguese attacker made the difference again here.
Recent history
Real Madrid actually lost when these sides met at El Madrigal in December’s reverse fixture, and were held to a goalless draw when they clashed at the Bernabéu last season. However, they’ll take rather more comfort from the knowledge that Villarreal have never managed to win away at the Bernabéu.
Real Madrid injuries and suspensions
Out: None. In doubt: None.
Villarreal injuries and suspensions
Out: Daniele Bonera (abductor); Mateo Musacchio, Samu Castillejo (thigh). In doubt: Jaume Costa (thigh); Pina (knee).
Real Madrid should have a full-strength team available. The same can’t be said of Villarreal, who will certainly be without defenders Bonera and Musacchio, and winger Castillejo. They’re still waiting on the fitness of full-back Costa and midfielder Pina, who are hoping to recover in time to play a part..
Match date/time: Weds., 4 p.m. ET, 10 p.m. local
Venue: Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid, Spain
TV: beIN Sports (U.S. and Canada - English); beIN SPORTS en Español (U.S. and Canada - Spanish); Sky Sports 3/HD (U.K.)
Online: beIN SPORTS CONNECT (U.S. and Canada); fuboTV (U.S.); Sky Go (U.K.)
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