Madrid, May 04: Valencia has the Spanish League championship in its grasp after a 2-0 win over Real Betis that moved it four points ahead of Real Madrid with only three rounds to go in the season.
The defending champion lost 2-0 at Deportivo De La Coruna Saturday, while FC Barcelona's exquisite display of creative football in its 4-1 derby win against cross-town rival Espanyol Sunday lifted it to within one point of Madrid, which is now almost certain to finish the season without a single trophy.
Valencia leads the standings with 74 points, Madrid has 70 and Barcelona 69. Deportivo is fourth on 65, while Athletic De Bilbao is fifth with 52 points, and Atletico De Madrid next on 51 points.
Valencia could secure the championship with one win and two draws even if Madrid and Barcelona win all their remaining games.
The dismay in the Madrid locker room after its defeat at the Riazor Stadium against a second-string Deportivo team -- the first team was resting in preparation for its Champions League clash yesterday against Oporto -- was expressed by midfielder Zinedine Zidane.



Sports daily Marca stated yesterday that the French star blamed himself for his team's defeat. His ejection left a 10-man Madrid with an impossible task on the field.



Despite Madrid's poor recent form, England captain David Beckham was quoted by the daily Marca as saying he wants to stay with the club.



"I am happy here and want to win something."


Bureau Report