Real Madrid aim to close gap on Barcelona against Leganes

Real Madrid return to La Liga action tonight, hosting a struggling Leganes side at the Santiago Bernabeu.

With Barcelona leading the title race by three points, every match is now crucial for Los Blancos.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side are in strong form, winning their last four matches before the international break.

Kylian Mbappe scored twice in their recent 2-1 victory over Villarreal, keeping them within touching distance of the top.

Madrid have not always been at their best this season, yet they remain contenders on all fronts.

A Champions League quarter-final against Arsenal and a Copa del Rey semi-final second leg against Real Sociedad are on the horizon, but La Liga remains the priority.

Leganes are 18th in the table. They have lost twice to Madrid this season, including a 3-0 league defeat in November and a 3-2 loss in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals.

Their record against Los Blancos is bleak, with two draws and seven defeats in nine La Liga meetings.

Ancelotti knows what is at stake. “Every game could be decisive as we try and get our hands on the trophies we want to win,” he said. “We have to do all we can, starting tomorrow.”

Madrid’s home record has been a key strength this season. They have taken 34 points from 13 matches at the Bernabeu, the best tally in La Liga.

Leganes have struggled on the road, picking up just 10 points from 14 away games.

Despite their struggles, Borja Jimenez’s side showed resilience with a 1-0 win at Barcelona before the winter break.

However, back-to-back defeats against Celta Vigo and Real Betis before the international window exposed their weaknesses.

Squad rotation will be a talking point for Ancelotti, with key fixtures coming up. Vinicius Junior, who has returned from international duty, could be rested.

“We have lots of games, and I have the option to rotate,” Ancelotti said.

Aurelian Tchouameni is also expected to be involved, while Thibaut Courtois remains sidelined but should return soon. Dani Ceballos and Ferland Mendy are working to regain fitness in time for Arsenal.

Madrid’s focus is clear. El Clasico may be looming, but dropping points before then is not an option. With 13 league games left, their title hopes remain in their hands.