Real Madrid are deservedly favourites to win the 2011/12 La Liga title after opening up a six-point lead at the summit.
FC Barcelona have been the dominant side in both Spanish and European football in recent seasons and many felt it was ridiculous to suggest that their dominance would end this season. However, that now looks to be case, at least domestically, with Jose Mourinho's Real Madrid having taken a commanding lead at the summit.
Former FC Porto, Chelsea and Inter Milan boss Mourinho always claimed that he wanted to be judged on his second season in Spanish football, citing his Champions League win at Inter in year two in Italy as evidence that once he has a settled squad, he can get the best out of his players. And so far the likes of Mesut Ozil, Angel Di Maria and Sami Khedira have delivered. It is 1/3 that Real Madrid manage to usurp the Catalans this season and Los Merengues look to be well on their way after opening up asix-point lead at the summit despite losing to their fierce rivals just before Christmas
Pre-season favourites Barcelona are now 9/4 to win La Liga 2011/12, but they cannot afford any more slip-ups having already been held to six draws this season, while losing twice. If Real Madrid do stumble, Barcelona must put themselves in a position to capitalise, but there have been few lowlights for Madrid this season, with only three draws and two defeats on their record.
In the other markets, last season's third placed finishers Valencia are odds on to take a Champions League place once again. However, one team to watch out for is Malaga, who were bought over by Qatari investor Abdullah ben Nasser Al Thani. Los Boquerones are now one of the richest clubs in Spain and the appointment of Manuel Pelligrini as manager last season was a master-stroke, with the Chilean not only helping Malaga avoid relegation but guiding them to an 11th placed finish. They are currently fifth in the standings, with injuries causing Pellegrini problems, but only goal difference is separating them from a spot in the top four.
Like many top European leagues, La Liga has seen its popularity soar in the last few seasons, due to the advent of live streaming, which has made it possible for fans around the world to can watch every match, including the 'El Clasico' clashes between Real Madrid and Barcelona, but also opened up a range of in-play betting opportunities on each fixture.
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