FC Barcelona might be behind in the La Liga title race with two matches to go, but they kept their slim title hopes alive after a cagey 0-1 draw at Real Valladolid on Saturday afternoon.
In a fairly even match in which Barcelona dominated possession but failed to create many clear chances, an Arturo Vidal strike from medium range past former Blaugrana goalie Jordi Masip in the 15th minute made the difference, giving his team three crucial points.
Real Valladolid gave Barcelona a number of scares from that point forward, including a second-half header by striker Enes Unal which Barca keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen miraculously saved to keep his team up by a goal.
While they struggled and didn’t find the net again, Quique Setien’s side was able to hold on until the final whistle blew in an uncomfortable, but a big victory which sees them only one point behind Real Madrid, although with a one-game disadvantage.
Barcelona will now look to see if Real Madrid is able to win at Granada on Monday night, a test which could prove difficult for Los Blancos. Meanwhile, Barcelona will now look towards its Thursday match against Osasuna, a must-win for the Blaugrana if they want to keep their title hopes alive.
