Athletic Bilbao 0-1 Real Madrid: 5 talking points as Los Blancos win to survive another day in title race | La Liga 2020-21

Real Madrid eked out a slender 1-0 win over Bilbao to keep their slim title hopes alive
Real Madrid eked out a slender 1-0 win over Bilbao to keep their slim title hopes alive

#3 Real Madrid need a creative talisman

Real Madrid needed a moment of inspiration to win tonight
Real Madrid needed a moment of inspiration to win tonight

It was very clear tonight that this Real Madrid side desperately need a player who can help in breaking down mean outfits like Athletic Bilbao. Even though Luka Modric put in another terrific shift, he'll turn 36 later this year and the side cannot afford to rely on him much longer.

They struggled to find a way past the stoic defense of Los Leones in the first-half and, despite upping their tempo after the break, failed to carve out many clear cut chances. Ultimately, a lapse in concentration at the back from Bilbao made the difference, but the Whites cannot ride their luck every time.

Eden Hazard must either recapture his mojo or they'll be forced to sign a new creative talisman.


#4 Raul Garcia suspended from Bilbao's final showdown

Garcia will miss the last game of the season after getting sent off tonight
Garcia will miss the last game of the season after getting sent off tonight

Raul Garcia was given a straight red for a challenge he made in the 89th minute and will now be suspended from Athletic Bilbao's final game away to Elche on Sunday.

It's unclear exactly what he did, but referee Antonio Lahoz didn't hesitate to send him off. That ensured he completed his 'league double' of red cards against Real Madrid this season, as the Spaniard was also sent for an early bath during the reverse fixture in December.

The former Atletico Madrid player will now sit out the season finale and leave the door ajar for Iker Muniain to come into his shoes.


#5 Real Madrid alive in the race but need a miracle to retain title

Zidane could bow out with yet another trophy, but needs a huge miracle
Zidane could bow out with yet another trophy, but needs a huge miracle

Real Madrid could've relinquished their La Liga crown today itself, but Nacho's goal kept them alive going into the final matchday. However, with Atletico Madrid also pulling off a late comeback, the holders remain two points adrift.

That means Rojiblancos will have to either draw or lose to Real Valladolid next Sunday for the Whites to retain their title, although it seems like a tough prospect on paper as the side languishes second from bottom and were mauled by Real Sociedad tonight.

To avoid relegation, the Blanquivioletas have to win, come hell or high water. There's no other way for them to survive now. But can they, really?

Meanwhile, Real Madrid face tough opposition from Villarreal, who're fighting for a spot in the Europa League and will be aiming for nothing less than three points.

Either way, we're in for a treat on the final matchday! Keep your popcorn ready. There will be fireworks.

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