Real Madrid get El Clasico boost with Vinicius heroics vs Espanyol

Barcelona are on course for a historic El Clasico title decider after Real Madrid defeated Espanyol to delay the inevitable in the La Liga race.

Real’s victory means Barcelona must wait at least one more game to be crowned champions, but a draw at the Nou Camp against their rivals next weekend will be enough to secure the title.

Real delay title with Espanyol win

Vinicius Junior scored twice in the second half to hand Madrid a 2-0 win. He opened the scoring after a one-two with Goncalo Garcia before adding a second from Jude Bellingham’s backheel.

Vinicius had earlier struck the post, while a red card shown to Omar El Hilali for a foul on the Brazilian was overturned following a VAR review.

Historic title scenario awaits

Barcelona remain 11 points clear at the top and now have the opportunity to clinch the title in El Clasico, something that has never happened in the 97-year history of La Liga.

A positive result would not only secure the title but also deny Madrid the awkward prospect of giving their rivals a guard of honour.

Records within reach

Barcelona could still break multiple records before the season ends. They are chasing the largest title-winning margin of 15 points, set in the 2012-13 campaign, and could also reach 100 points if they win their remaining fixtures.

The Catalan side are also closing in on a record number of league wins in a single season, highlighting their dominance throughout the campaign.

For Madrid, the result only delays the outcome, with the club now facing the prospect of finishing the season without silverware for just the second time since 2009-10.