Madrid, Apr 10 (V7N)- Spanish giants Real Madrid are facing mounting pressure after a difficult run in both domestic and European competitions, leaving their title hopes hanging by a thread.

The Madrid side suffered a home defeat to Bayern Munich in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, while also struggling in La Liga, where they trail arch-rivals FC Barcelona by seven points.

With just eight matches remaining, Real Madrid’s chances of winning the league are rapidly fading. A recent 2-1 loss to RCD Mallorca has further complicated their campaign, making their upcoming match against Girona FC a must-win encounter.

Failure to secure three points against Girona could effectively end Real’s title race. The team now finds itself in a position where every remaining match is crucial to keep their mathematical hopes alive.

Head coach Álvaro Arbeloa remains determined despite the setbacks.

 “We are not here to waste time. Real Madrid has built its history by overcoming great challenges. Right now, our only goal is to win the three points,” he said.

While Real Madrid are also preparing for the return leg against Bayern in Munich, Arbeloa stressed the importance of staying focused on the league.

The Champions League second leg will be played at the Allianz Arena, where Madrid will look to overturn the deficit. However, before that, their immediate priority is closing the gap with Barcelona in La Liga.

Despite recent struggles, Arbeloa has placed his trust in star forward Vinícius Júnior, describing him as the team’s biggest asset.

“The talent he has shown is unparalleled,” the coach said, reaffirming his confidence in the Brazilian winger.

With pressure mounting and little margin for error, Real Madrid now face a defining phase of their season—where one more slip could end both their domestic and European ambitions.

END/SMA/AJ