LaLiga leaders Real Madrid had been held to a 0-0 draw away at Villarreal on Saturday, as their lead at the highest of the desk was lowered to simply four points.
Real got here into the sport with out injured talisman Karim Benzema and it advised as they struggled to gel in an uncharacteristically sluggish first half, earlier than wanting extra like their previous selves after the break.
“We had numerous alternatives to win it however in soccer you want to take your probabilities,” stated Real midfielder Casemiro.
“The coach ensured we had been a lot better within the second interval, which is a efficiency we are going to take encouragement from. We’re coming into the enterprise finish of the season and we’re all working properly, pushing in the suitable course.
“The teaching employees are all the time pushing us and we would like to win all the things this season.”
Real coughed up numerous probabilities within the opening phases, with Villarreal’s Samuel Chukwueze a menace all through, as Real skipper Marcelo struggled in opposition to the Nigerian’s tempo and directness.
Villarreal ahead Arnaut Danjuma hit the submit earlier than Real keeper Thibaut Courtois produced a high quality save to deny Alberto Moreno from the sting of the field as the house aspect pushed for an opener.
Real had requires a penalty waved away as Vinicius Junior went down clutching his face after a coming collectively with Raul Albiol, whereas Villarreal had been incensed that Marco Asensio was not proven a crimson card for a excessive problem on Vicente Iborra.
The guests had been much-improved after the break, with Gareth Bale — making his first look for the membership since August — clipping the bar earlier than he and crew mate Vinicius had been denied in fast succession by Villarreal goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli.
Substitute Luka Jovic then hit the bar in stoppage time as Real sought a late winner with fellow substitute Nacho’s follow-up cleared off the road by Serge Aurier.
Madrid transfer onto 54 points, four forward of second-placed Sevilla with either side having performed 24 video games. Villarreal, in the meantime, are fifth on 36 points.
(Reporting by Joseph Walker; Editing by Toby Davis)
