BARCELONA – Vinicius Jr scored twice in the second half as Real Madrid secured a 2-0 victory over Espanyol in LaLiga on Sunday, keeping their slim title hopes alive.

With four matches remaining, Barcelona continue to lead the standings with 88 points, 11 ahead of second-placed Real Madrid. The Catalan club could clinch the title next weekend when they host their archrivals at Camp Nou in a decisive El Clasico that may confirm them as champions for a second straight season.

Real Madrid struggled to create clear chances in a slow-paced first half despite dominating possession. They nearly took the lead early when Vinicius struck the post from inside the box in the eighth minute. However, the visitors lacked cutting edge, especially with several key players sidelined, including Kylian Mbappe, Arda Guler, Thibaut Courtois, and Eder Militao.

The breakthrough finally came in the 55th minute through Vinicius. The Brazilian forward drove in from the left, combined neatly with Gonzalo, and weaved past two defenders before finishing low into the net off the post.

Vinicius doubled his tally in the 66th minute with another moment of brilliance. After linking up with Jude Bellingham in a quick one-two, the England midfielder returned the ball with a backheel. Vinicius then adjusted his position inside the penalty area before firing a first-time right-footed shot into the top corner, leaving the Espanyol goalkeeper with no chance.

The winger’s individual quality ultimately decided a match that had been otherwise controlled but uninspiring for Real Madrid. The win delays Barcelona’s potential title celebrations, although they remain firmly in control of the race and could seal the championship as early as next weekend’s Clasico. -Reporting by Fernando Kallas in MadridEditing by Toby Davis/Reuters