Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas has ruled out the possibility of a comfortable stroll to the Primera Liga title for his side, believing they have the toughest run-in of the three main contenders.
With eight games to go, Madrid hold the upper hand after beating Sevilla 3-1 on Sunday to establish a six-point lead over second-placed Villarreal and a seven-point advantage over Barcelona.
However, that buffer could prove crucial if Casillas' assessment of the three clubs' run-in is correct, with the Spain international saying: "From my point of view, I think we have a more difficult fixture list than the other teams, although it is true that Villarreal now have to go to Sevilla, who have now lost two games in succession."
Among the teams Madrid still have to face are Racing Santander, Real Mallorca, Osasuna and Athletic Bilbao - who are currently four of the five most in-form teams in the division along with Villarreal - plus other matches against Barcelona and Real Zaragoza.
"We have to try and not lose our advantage and we know that we have to continue winning games to be champions," Casillas added in comments reported by his club's website.
"Right now there are 24 points to play for and if we win 18 we are champions, which is what we are going to fight for."
Casillas also threw his support behind coach Bernd Schuster, who has come under fire after a disappointing start to 2008 which has seen Madrid lose half of their 18 competitive matches and get knocked out of both the Champions League and Copa del Rey.
When asked if he thought it was good news that Madrid president Ramon Calderon told that Schuster he would be continuing as coach next season, Casillas said: "Yes, I think that's good for all.
"A little stability is not a bad thing for anybody and neither for Real Madrid.
"He has achieved a level of stability at the club, as there have been many changes, including a change in coach and new players.
"For a coach to hear this from the president is very good for the confidence of the coach and his plans.
"Even though we are out out of other competitions such as the Copa del Rey and Champions League, right now in the league the team are very well-placed and a title is very important for us and above all for the fans."
