Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has admitted that winning La Liga this season for his side is "almost impossible".
The defending champions were held to a 2-2 draw by Espanyol at home on Sunday and are now 13 points behind leaders Barcelona.
"I think winning the league is almost impossible but we still have to perform better because if we improve in La Liga, we improve in the Champions League," Mourinho told reporters.
"We are not as good as before. We do not have the same joy and confidence, and we struggle to score as much as last year. I have never been in this situation, but I do not lack strength.
"We will continue to fight for the title, even though it seems impossible, because this is Real Madrid. Everyone has to stand up for themselves - for ambition, personal dignity and the Real Madrid name."
Barcelona defeated Atletico Madrid 4-1 at Camp Nou on Sunday.
