
Real Madrid were crowned La Liga champions for the 34 th time on Thursday after they beat Villarreal 2 – 1 to clinch the title with one game to spare.
Karim Benzema scored twice including a second – half penalty at the empty Alfredo di Stefano Stadium to send Madrid seven points clear and end Barcelona ’ s two-year hold on the trophy .
Barca had to prevail against Osasuna at home and hope Madrid slipped up but their challenge ended with a 2 – 1 defeat at Camp Nou, despite a brilliant Lionel Messi free – kick .
Source punchng