REAL MADRID coach Jose Mourinho congratulated Barcelona after his side’s 1-1 draw with Espanyol ended the title race.

Holders Madrid needed a victory at the home of Barca’s city rivals to prevent Tito Vilanova’s men from taking their title.

But they were disjointed and off the pace in a first half which was dominated by Espanyol, who were unfortunate to have only a one-goal lead, courtesy of Christian Stuani’s 23rd-minute strike.

Hector Moreno incorrectly had a goal disallowed as Real appeared to have one eye on next Friday’s Copa del Rey final against Atletico Madrid, with key men, including Cristiano Ronaldo, on the bench.

The second-half introduction of Ronaldo was followed moments later by Gonzalo Higuain’s 58th-minute equaliser but Madrid could not find a winner.

‘‘I congratulate Barcelona, their coaches, their players, their managers and their fans,’’ said Mourinho.