Real Madrid still have second-placed Atletico Madrid in their sights, but if they want to finish above their city rivals at the end of the season they can ill-afford to drop points on Saturday against Athletic Club.
Zinedine Zidane had led his side to three victories in four matches before a disappointing 1-1 draw against Leganes on Monday. There is little doubt, however, this is not a team firing on all cylinders.
Athletic, meanwhile, are chasing a place in the Europa League and after three wins in four matches they approach the match at the Santiago Bernabeu in good spirits.