Real Madrid Fail To Hold On To Ronaldo's Lead

Real Madrid failed to make it 23 wins in a row thanks to a gritty comeback by Valencia. Real Madrid suffered their first defeat since losing to cross town rivals Atletico Madrid on Sep. 13 2014. In this winning run they won the 2014 FIFA Club World Cup as well.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 33 goal for Real Madrid in all competitions by converting a penalty. After Gareth Bale was fouled the resultant free kick from Tony Kroos was flicked on by Bale and the ball was obstructed by on-loan Manchester City striker Alvaro Negredo using his arm. The referee awarded the penalty as a result.

After taking an early lead away to the Mestalla Stadium, it was expected that Real would cruise to their 23rd win in a row. Valencia FC had other ideas. Barragan equalized for the hosts seven minutes after the restart and the Argentinian international Nicolas Otamendi scored a fine winner with a headed goal to secure victory for the hosts in the 65th minute.

"There were important points of the match where we didn't take our chances, but as I've said in football this happens", Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti was philosophical after the defeat and did not make any excuses. Fortunately for Real Madrid they have had a stellar season so far. They had lost two matches in a row very early in the season but have won all their matches since then. Even after this loss they are one point ahead of Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, at second and third positions on the league table respectively, with one match in hand as well. Real Madrid are yet to draw a match this season.

Valencia on the other hand moved into the UEFA Champions League places with this win. They have 34 points from 17 matches, five less than the league toppers Real Madrid.

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