Real Madrid Throw Away La Liga and Breathe Life into Barcelona

Though it seems unbelievable, Real Madrid have definitely thrown away the La Liga title with two games still to play.

Carlo Ancelotti's men fell out of the race following a devastating 1-1 draw at Valladolid last night – a result which allows Barcelona the opportunity to contest the title with Atletico Madrid.

After Barca and Atletico dropped points in their last match, Madrid had the chance to gain a decisive advantage. But they have blown it, after a night which began badly and ended even worse.

In the 8th minute, Cristiano Ronaldo came off the pitch with an injury, exacerbating the problems posed by the absence of Gareth Balee, who did not play after injuries suffered during the Valencia game.

However, Madrid took the lead in the 35th minute as Sergio Ramos opened the scoring with a spectacular strike from 25 yards. But Real forgot that Valladolid were fighting to stay up, and with only six minutes left Humberto Osorio scored an equaliser.

If Barcelona and Atletico win their respective games this Sunday, Real Madrid will be guaranteed to miss out on the title. However it would create a genuine La Liga final at the Camp Nou – with either a draw or victory, Atleti would rise the title after 18 years. On the other hand, if Barca win the six points that remain, they will be champions as they have goal difference in their favour.

Ronaldo was not the only player who ended last night's game injured – Pepe and Angel Di Maria also went down. Both players will be checked tomorrow, but the first diagnosis is not optimistic with only two weeks until the Champions League final.

Ramos, who helped Real to smash Bayern Munich in their Champions semi-final with two sublime headers, left Jose Zorrilla Stadium aware of having thrown the league away, saying: "La Liga is almost lost, but meanwhile it is possible mathematically, Madrid are forced to fight.

"We have missed a unique opportunity. With ten minutes left, we committed the sin of relaxation. We have shown neglect and they have caught us."