La Liga’s dramatic final two matches

MADRID, SPAIN - MAY 14: Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid reacts during the La Liga match between Real Madrid CF and Sevilla CF at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on May 14, 2017 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by fotopress/Getty Images )
MADRID, SPAIN - MAY 14: Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid reacts during the La Liga match between Real Madrid CF and Sevilla CF at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on May 14, 2017 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by fotopress/Getty Images ) /
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A look ahead at the exciting weekend to decide La Liga’s champion.

Spain’s first division is often defined by its two massive clubs, with Real Madrid and Barcelona holding a tremendous influence in La Liga each year. This fact remains quite the same as the final matchday of the 2016-17 season plays out this weekend.

With only three points separating the El Clasico rivals, the Blaugrana will host Eibar and Los Blancos will travel to Malaga in the top flight’s last fixtures.

The current term has seen both Real Madrid and Barcelona pull away from the competition over the past few weeks, with Zinedine Zidane’s side showcasing their quality on Wednesday at Celta Vigo. Level on points with Barca at the top of the table but holding a game in-hand, Real flexed their muscle with a 4-1 thrashing of Celta.

Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo continues to defy his critics and logic at times, continuing to keep absurd scoring numbers a regular occurrence. CR7 scored two goals on Wednesday, and was the key catalyst in Real Madrid’s return to the UEFA Champions League final.

Barcelona vs. SD Eibar

Manager Luis Enrique and his squad prepare for what is bound to be an emotional encounter on Sunday, as the Barcelona boss will coach his final match at the Camp Nou. He faces an Eibar side that have played well throughout the campaign, and can certainly not be an overlooked opponent.

Currently eighth in the table, manager Jose Luis Mendilibar has led Los Armeros to impressive results during the season. Striker Sergio Enrich has been a force at the top of the line-up, and a strong midfield may have the quality to slow down the Barcelona attack.

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But that is easier said than done, with the Barca front-line in scintillating form. Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar can stretch any formation and will put immense pressure on the Eibar defence.

Arguably, the most difficult task will be counting on a critical result in the match taking place at the exact same time.

Malaga CF vs. Real Madrid CF

All eyes will be on the Estadio La Rosaleda Sunday evening, including those in Catalonia, when Malaga host Real Madrid. Los Blancos will require only a point to secure their 33rd La Liga crown.

Los Boquerones and manager Michel will need to be at their best to earn a victory, but have the capability to surprise. Goalkeeper Carlos Kameni has been outstanding this season, while striker Sandro Ramirez has been in sparkling form.

As often is the case when matters involve Real Madrid, there is also an ironic twist in this particular encounter. As part of Isco’s transfer to the Santiago Bernabeu in the summer of 2013, Los Blancos will have to pay their opponent €1 million if they should win. A unique sub-plot that’s adds even more drama to an anticipated fixture.

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Ultimately, Real Madrid’s attack should be enough to break down Malaga and lift yet another trophy. But, if there is one thing that football has taught us, anything can happen.