Round 19

Round 19 was a routine round for both Real Madrid and Barcelona. Both sides won 4-1 and the gap of five points between the sides maintained. Real Madrid were not at their best Sunday night and on another night Bilbao may have converted some of the other chances they created in the first half to go 2-0 up. Fernando Llorente wasn't clinical enough to give Madrid a major scare of being 2-0 down but he took his goal very well. Muniain played well throughout and Marcelo Bielsa's side can count themselves unlucky on Sunday. Real got the job done with two penalties from Ronaldo and it was great to see José Callejon got another goal. Callejon is turning out to be a fantastic addition to the squad in terms of important goals and Madrid will need that kind of touch on Wednesday in the clash with Barcelona.

Barcelona themselves were relatively untroubled by a disappointing Málaga side who are now under pressure. Manuel Pellegrini has his work cut out to secure European qualification. Lionel Messi took his hat-trick well and Barcelona deserved their victory although not close to their best performance. They are favourites to go through to the copa del rey semis on Wednesday but they warmed up in good style.

Valencia will be very disappointed with their result against Osasuna. They almost stole three points but lack of concentration resulted in two points very much dropped. Valencia have hit a bad spell at a crucial time in the season. They were just four points behind Barcelona two weeks ago but are now nine points behind. Roberto Soldado grabbing another goal though will remain a positive for Unai Emery as he prepares for the derby against Levante in mid-week.

Elswhere the troubles continue for Zaragoza. They got a point away to Levante which is no mean feat but Zaragoza need alot more than just draws if they are to save themselves this season. They lacked cutting edge up front and Hélder Postiga is struggling in the lone striker role. Manolo Jiménez' badly need to get their first victory since November and quick. Things don't get any easier however for Zaragoza as they go to the Bernabeu on Saturday.

Atlético Madrid are on the up once more. The appointment of Diego Simeone as replacement for Gregorio Manzano has seen Atlético take seven points from the last nine and Saturday's 4-0 win away to Real Sociedad was particularly impressive. Falcao got a stunning hat-trick and Atlético were victorious on the road for the first time this season. They are now right back in this European chase and could be a sneaky bet for a champions league spot on current form.