Gabe Lezra

Rayo showcased some pinpoint accuracy from long range, as they dominated a worn-down Levante side 3-0. Valencia, on the other hand couldn't hang on to a lead against Getafe, ultimately winning 4-2.

The scheduling Gods at the LFP gave us a full docket of games today--how better to stave off apocalypse?--and what emerged were a series of relatively benign wins. But don't tell that to Rayo Vallecano who demolished Levante 3-0.

On some level, it's pacifying to note that, despite the uncertain world, Real Madrid will always be able to fabricate a crisis. Ultimately, Madrid abides.

The top Spanish teams all have theoretically easy second- and third-division opponents in the Round of 32. But that doesn't mean that we won't see an upset--just say the word "Alcorcón" to a Real Madrid fan.

Málaga dominated Valencia this afternoon, and watched their handiwork disappear unnoticed in the unravelling of Real Madrid

Real Madrid are still struggling. They've managed to right the ship somewhat since the beginning of the year, but they haven't managed to pull back any points on Barcelona.

Fernando Llorente and Athletic Bilbao take on Real Madrid in the Santiago Bernabéu this weekend; but this weekend, we'll see a very, very different side to Llorente--a caged lion.

FC Barcelona and Lionel Messi scored a strong victory today in a 2-4 dismantling of Mallorca. Athletic dropped Sevilla in a tough game to hang onto a shred of hope of finishing higher then mid-table.