Barcelona pull level with Real in betting after El Clasico masterclass

Barcelona continued their excellent recent record against Real Madrid on Saturday thanks to a brilliant 3-1 win that has seen their La Liga odds slashed.

Real were the big La Liga favourites heading into the game having enjoyed a three point lead at the top of the table.

However, Barca’s excellent performance at the Bernabeu has seen them pull level on points with Real and they are currently the table-toppers due to their superior head-to-head record.

Because of the La Liga rules that mean teams are separated by their head-to-head record rather than goal difference, Pep Guardiola’s side have struck what could be a decisive blow in the title race.

The result also means that both teams are currently priced at 20/23 in the betting to win La Liga.

It goes without saying that Real should not be discounted and their defeat to Barca was the first time the capital side have not won in 15 games.

Jose Mourinho’s men have played a game less than Barca and they can move back to the top of the table with a win over Sevilla next Saturday.

Meanwhile, Barcelona will be competing in the FIFA World Club Cup in Japan next weekend and are expected to add yet another trophy to their burgeoning cabinet.

Claiming that title shouldn’t be a problem for Barcelona who are vastly superior to any other side in the FIFA showpiece.

However, retaining the La Liga title should prove to be a far trickier proposition and their next league meeting with Real – scheduled for April – already has the distinct look of a title decider about it.