Real Madrid continued to struggle in La Liga with another draw against Real Betis which gives Barcelona some breathing room at the top of the league table.
Real Betis vs Real Madrid:
Needing a win to keep pace with the league leaders, Real instead were held to a goalless draw by Betis on their own turf.
Coming off a loss to Barcelona in Copa del Rey, Carlo Ancelotti’s men once again failed to find the target despite creating several opportunities for themselves.
Karim Benzema seemingly did put his side ahead in the 12th minute from a direct freekick which was ruled out by VAR after hitting Antonio Rudiger’s hand before beating Claudio Bravo in Betis’ goal.
Federico Valverde was the next man to go close but his venomous shot flew past the goal.
The intensity of the game increased after the break with Madrid and Betis both having their keepers to thank for keeping things level.
Bravo first denied Benzema before Thibaut Courtois bailed his side out by saving a point-blank shot from Borja Iglesias.
Rodrygo had late chances to get his side over the line but missed two gilt-edged chances of being his side’s hero.
Real Madrid has been lacking in goals since earning a 5-2 win over Liverpool in their Champions League tie in a worrying sign for the team. They have now gone three games without finding the back of the net.
The defending La Liga champions remain second in the league table with 53 points from 24 games, nine behind leaders Barcelona.
Barcelona vs Valencia:
Raphinha scored the only goal of the game in the 15th minute as Barcelona secured a narrow win over Valencia to get back to winning ways in La Liga.
Xavi’s side looked far from their best but managed to eke out a win despite going down to 10 men after Ronald Araujo was sent off in the 59th minute.
The win takes them 9 points clear of Real Madrid after taking them to 62 points from 24 games.
