The gap of 8 points is actually still possible to chase but I think we should also consider Madrid' current performance which Is indeed difficult to beat even by Barcelona who are its closest competitors, in my opinion, Madrid may only need to win El Classico this week to be able to keep them on the winning path and kick Barcelona out of the championship competition this season.
After Madrid won the UCL match against Manchester City of course they will return to focus on Laliga, the difference of 8 points is not too far and Barcelona still has a chance to catch up but of course they have to see Madrid make mistakes, but it seems that Madrid has not made a mistake in the last few matches in fact they got consecutive wins which ultimately kept them at the top of the standings and if they continue to be consistent until the end of the season of course they will become Laliga champions this season.
The El Classico match will of course be decisive and the one most awaited by the supporters of both because it will determine which one is the best and will win the title this season. If Madrid is able to beat Barcelona, of course it will make Madrid even stronger at the top of the standings by keeping the point difference even further. That's why Barcelona has continued to be consistent until now so that they can take the opportunity to reduce the difference in points with Madrid if in the end Madrid makes a mistake. It seems that this season Madrid is really serious about competing in the UCL and Laliga to fight for their second title.