Football News La Liga Title Race: Atletico Madrid

What a season La Liga 20/21 has been. We can't argue that this season has been one of the most competitive in history. Football supporters were on their toes until the very end, whether it was for the championship chase, champions league slots, or Europa League spots. At the end of the day, the winner wins it all, and Atletico Madrid emerged victoriously. Who'd have guessed that three teams will be competing for the championship before the end of the season?

Match Day 38: Real Madrid vs Villareal

Real Madrid Starting Lineup 4-3-3:

Goalkeeper: Courtois

Defenders: Miguel, Varane, Militao, Odriozola

Midfielders: Valverde, Casimiro, Luca Modric

Forwards: Asensio, Karim Benzema, Vinicius Jr

Manager: Zinedine Zidane

Let us start the match preview:

Zinedine Zidane was missing some of his important players for the final match, with the likes of Lucas Vasquez, Eden Hazard, Carvajal, Ferland Mendy, Toni Kroos and others were on the bench.
The game started with a bit of nervousness for Real Madrid players as this was the most important game of the season which could have resulted in securing their La Liga title.
As the game was in its full rhythm, we saw an early goal at 19' from Villarreal player "Yeremi Pino" assisted by Moreno, who had a wonderful season. We conceded early due to the defensive error and a lucky touch from Pino.
Soon, Asensio's had a chance to score at 24' but his header was wideout.
As always, we were able to see a clear handball at 26' from Villareal player to which Benzema reacted immediately to appeal to the referee. But the game continued and the referee didn't look at the VAR for preview.
As far as rules are considered for the handball. One of the rules implied in this situation was that the arm was away from the body and the path of the ball was changed. After seeing the replays clearly, fans were furious at the decision of the referee.
Real Madrid was trying to get back the equalizer and it was soon Modric tried to shoot but missed his target at 35'.
Real Madrid players knew they have to give it all. Before the whistle, Benzema tried to get on the scoreboard but his shot was over the bar at 44'. The game was pretty intense and Real failed to score in the first half of the game.
Zidane needed to change his tactics as the current one was not working against Emery's men.
Zidane came back on the ground with the same starting eleven and was ready for his next move. Real came back on the ground with a bit more energy and the hunger to score.
Valverde tried to hit the target but failed at 49'.
Soon Real Madrid saw the hope when Benzema was able to find the nets with a beautiful header at 56' which was later ruled as offside.
Zidane made his changes and now we were seeing Rodrygo and Isco on the wings. Rodrygo made his first impact by high-pressing Villarreal's goalie and gave Benzema a golden chance to score. Benzema missed this opportunity and Villarreal was still leading the game.
Zidane had to do something and he made his final move by bringing Marcelo, Nacho, and Mariano on the pitch.
Marcelo was looking dangerous as soon as he stepped on the field. Zidane was hoping for a comeback and wanted his team to fight till the end.
It was time to open the scorebook of the game for Real Madrid when Benzema scored a beautiful equalizer at 86'.
In no time, Real was able to find the score chart when Modric scored a thrilling goal at 90+1'.
What a spirit Real Madrid players showed on the pitch and were able to fight till the end.

Unfortunately Real was not able to lift the title as Atletico Madrid finished the table with 2 more points at 86 points.

Conclusion of the Season:
Atletico Madrid started their La Liga title chase with a sprint before losing ground and nearly losing their composure. However, they went into the final weekend with the finish line in sight, striving to keep ahead of a heroic yet tired Real Madrid. Athletico started their final match of the season with an advantage over Real Madrid and was able to beat Real Valladolid to clinch their La Liga title. Atletico Madrid has a great run this season and thoroughly deserved to win the competition. But, Real Madrid emerged as the competitive side even though they had a lot of injuries this season letting Zidane experiment with the young Castilla talents like Miguel, Balanco, Marvina, and Arribas.
Now the news we all are waiting for is if Zidane stays or leaves Madrid. Next season is going to be more interesting as the transfer window is about to start. Real Madrid will be eyeing for the much-needed players with the likes of Haaland and Kylian Mbappe. Well, it's a matter of time to find out what is next for Real Madrid.

Hope I was able to do justice to the match preview and would love you guys to share your thoughts on this in the comment box. Hala Madrid.