It could not be tighter at the top of LaLiga — and shock leaders Real Sociedad will be looking to maintain their position at the summit when they face Osasuna on Sunday.
That leaves capital rivals Real and Atletico Madrid seeking wins against Rayo Vallecano and Valencia respectively, as they bid to re-assert their status as Spain’s top sides amid Barcelona’s struggles.
The weekend’s action concludes with the derby clash between Real Betis and Sevilla, where local bragging rights will be on the line at the Estadio Benito Villamarin.
Free-scoring Madrid already have an eye-catching 26 league goals to their name this season, finding themselves a point behind leaders Sociedad with a game in hand.
City rivals Rayo are enjoying an impressive campaign of their own though, sitting sixth in the table and just four points behind Los Blancos — though they have also played a game more.
Radamel Falcao’s goal in Rayo’s 1-0 win against Barcelona last month prompted the Catalan club to sack manager Ronald Koeman.
Though there will be no such repercussions at Real should they lose, a statement win is needed to lay down a marker and remind their rivals who the top dogs in Spain are.