Daijiworld Media Network- Madrid
Madrid, May 20: As the curtains begin to draw on the 2024–25 La Liga season, the 37th matchday brought fresh intensity and drama. While the league title is securely in Barcelona's cabinet and Real Madrid looks set to finish second, the battle for European qualification and survival at the bottom remains fiercely contested.
Here are four things we learned from the action-packed weekend in Spain:
1. Rock-Solid Athletic Club Locks Fourth Spot
Athletic Club Bilbao underlined their credentials with a gritty 1-0 victory over Valencia at the Mestalla Stadium. A stunning strike from Alex Berenguer 20 minutes from time sealed the win, cementing Athletic’s fourth-place finish and a spot in the Spanish Supercup next season.
Despite a packed calendar, which included a Europa League semifinal run, the Basque side showcased incredible defensive discipline, led by Dani Vivian and goalkeeper Unai Simon. With just 26 goals conceded all season and five consecutive clean sheets, Athletic boasts the best defensive record across Europe. No team has lost fewer games than them this campaign—a testament to their resilience and structure.
2. Villarreal Clinch Champions League Berth with Shock Win Over Barca
In what could be seen as a hangover-struck Barcelona side, Villarreal capitalised with a thrilling 3-2 win at Camp Nou. Having secured the title days earlier, the Catalan giants were visibly off the pace—something Marcelino Garcia Toral's Villarreal took full advantage of.
The victory not only marked Villarreal’s fifth straight league win but also confirmed their return to the UEFA Champions League. Freed from European distractions this season, the Yellow Submarine have thrived on domestic focus, with forwards Ayoze Perez (19 goals) and Thierno Barry (11) leading a lightning-quick attack, supported by experienced campaigners like Raul Albiol, Dani Parejo, and Juan Foyth.
3. European Spots Up for Grabs on Final Day
The battle for the final European spot promises high drama on Matchday 38. Celta Vigo, who seemed poised for a Europa League berth, stumbled at home against a spirited Rayo Vallecano side. Rayo’s surprise win keeps them a single point behind Celta, blowing the race wide open.
Meanwhile, Osasuna remains in the mix after a comfortable 2-0 win over Espanyol, thanks to Ante Budimir's 21st goal of the season. The final weekend now sees Celta visiting Getafe, Rayo hosting Mallorca, and Osasuna facing a safe Alaves—each hoping for a last-minute surge into Europe, with even a Conference League slot on the line.
4. Kike Garcia – The Veteran Who Keeps Delivering
One of La Liga’s quiet workhorses, 35-year-old striker Kike Garcia, delivered once again for Deportivo Alaves. His calm early penalty secured a crucial 1-0 win away to Valladolid, ensuring Alaves' safety in the top flight for another season.
Kike, often overlooked by fans of the bigger clubs, has quietly had his most prolific season with 13 goals. But his value goes beyond scoring—he’s been a consistent presence up front, battling defenders and anchoring attacks. With a decade of La Liga experience under his belt, Kike remains a symbol of endurance and professionalism.