Real Madrid’s win for 1-2 against pursuer Barcelona cleared up the future of La Liga’s race four matches to be played before the end of the competition. Khedira’s opener and Ronaldo’s final goal made Guardiola’s squad failed to reduce points at the last chance to achieve first position in the table, where Real Madrid stands now seven points ahead.
The visitors, who came to “el clásico” after being defeated by Germans Bayern Munich at Champions League’s first leg semifinals, made an impressive start as they took the lead on attacking Valdés’ goal. World ace Ronaldo could break the goalless but his header was sent out by a superb full stretch of Barcelona’s goalkeeper. Despite many may sense of Mourinho’s side, they seemed to face the game truly convinced of showing up their powerful front rather than sit back and wait for fascinating Barça’s passing-game to wipe them out.
Real Madrid hit first
Khedira’s opener goal on 17 minutes came when a corner from Ozil was touched weakly by Pepe, Valdés was unable to make a good catch and sweeper midfielder took advantage of chaos to push the ball into the back of the net. Mou’s team found themselves in an unexpected idyllic situation at Camp Nou.
Stunning ball movement of Barcelona’s boys did not last to appear though. As soon as play makers Xavi, Busquets and Iniesta greased their lethal mechanism of excellent first touches and through balls, things started to look better for home team. Xavi was sent clear by Golden Ball winner Leo Messi and his shot went beyond by-line after grazing right-side of Casillas’ body. Guardiola’s men continued attempting to draw the match as they were forced to defeat Real Madrid to keep on fighting for La Liga. Youngster Tello had the best opportunity for "culés" to equalize the game but his strike came out over the crossbar. Interval interrupted the sweetest moments of Barça’s play as they were pushing back their opponents by creating chances.
Alexis' leveller and Ronaldo
La Liga seems to be bound to Real Madrid hands after three seasons of Guardiola’s control
Match restart brought similar feelings of what occurred in the late minutes of first period. Barcelona’s most skillful players enlarged their influence on the pitch and ended up commanding all the best moves Guardiola’s side. Visitors were efficient at defensive duties though as Khedira and centre-back Sergio Ramos blocked every cross. Chilean Alexis Sánchez, who had come from the bench, attained to score for Barça on 70 minutes after picking up a rebound in the box. Crowd burst into happiness, aware of a comeback might be achievable. Cristiano Ronaldo’s response was devastating for "culés" hopes. Three minutes later of Alexis’ leveller, La Liga’s top scorer placed Real Madrid up again after dribbling Víctor Valdés on the edge of the box. Ronaldo’s goal knocked down Barcelona’s dream of assaulting the head of the table.
Mourinho’s squad face the last four fixtures seven points ahead from their maximum rivals after a decisive win at Camp Nou that allows them to focus on Champions League’s second leg at Bernabéu on Wednesday. La Liga seems to be bound to Real Madrid hands after three seasons of Guardiola’s control.