Nine games into La Liga’s season in Spain and things are starting to look familiar. After jockeying for the top spot early, Villarreal have seemingly fallen back to Earth though are still within striking distance in fifth place with 17 points, just four behind leaders Real Madrid and Barcelona. 

Both Spanish giants are even on points with 21 but it is Madrid that sits atop the table based on goal differential. Los Blancos have failed to capitalize on Messi’s absence so far tying twice in the month the Argentine superstar has been out with a knee injury. Still the Catalan side’s performance has been admirable, as they have dropped just one match, winning the rest and weathering the storm. Messi is projected to be out another four weeks and with El Clasico looming next month, Madrid must take advantage and the three points.

Hampering Barcelona even further is the fact it is unable to integrate their summer signings like Ardan Turan due to FIFA sanctions. Until they are able to do so in January, it is imperative Real Madrid take advantage now, as their margin for error will wane after the New Year.

Madrid isn’t scoring with as much regularity as years past either. Some blame new coach Rafa Benitez, who has never been known for an attacking friendly scheme. Cristiano Ronaldo may be finally showing signs of slowing down, with only seven goals this season, off his pace of past years though still good for second in Spain.

Among Real Madrid’s most impressive performers is Costa Rican goalkeeper Keylor Navas. Signed after last year’s World Cup, he had to take a back seat to former club legend Iker Casillas and was supposed to again sit on the bench as David de Gea was due to arrive from Manchester United. Possibly for the better the deal didn’t go through as Navas has shown himself to be more than capable of filling Casillas’ boots. No doubt the lynchpin holding Madrid’s title hopes alive until their attack gets going again.

Photo: Flickr/Jan SOLO