LaLiga Santander is heating up: Head-to-head clashes lie ahead

'Hay Liga' is much more than a hashtag on social media. It has become a reality as Atletico Madrid's lead has dwindled and they're now just three points above Real Madrid.

Los Colchoneros have taken just five points from the last 12 on offer, after chaining together eight consecutive wins. Real Madrid edged a win at Real Valladolid, but Barcelona failed to capitalise on Atleti's loss at Levante.

Now Atletico have 55 points, Real Madrid have 52 with a game more played, Barcelona have 47 and Sevilla have 45 ahead of their trip to Pamplona on Monday.

There are still 15 matchdays to come, though Atleti, Barcelona and Sevilla all have a game in hand over Real Madrid. Barcelona play theirs on Wednesday against Elche, Atletico face Athletic Club on March 10 and then Sevilla play Elche on March 17.

The schedules for the title challengers

By Matchday 28, all four will have played the same number of games and each will have 10 to play.

They all still have to play each other, as well. There is a Madrid derby, El Clasico, Real Madrid vs Sevilla, Barcelona vs Sevilla and others still to play.

Matchday 35 looks especially interesting as Real Madrid host Sevilla while Barcelona welcome Atletico to the Camp Nou.

The following matchday is also an interesting one as Atletico will face Villarreal and Real Madrid host Real Sociedad, with both games coming after potential Champions League dates.

The title race could be decided by how the sides fare in Europe. If they continue in the Champions League, they'll surely struggle to be at their best domestically.

There are four teams in the race now, but there's still an awful lot to play for.

Atletico visit Villarreal, Sevilla, Athletic and Barcelona. Real Madrid still have travel to Atletico. Barcelona will visit San Sebastian, the Estadio Di Stefano and Villarreal. Sevilla will travel to those three venues too.

'Hay Liga' indeed. There is a title race.