Real Madrid dropped another two points in the race for the Primera Division title as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Valencia at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Cristiano Ronaldo came within inches of opening the scoring in the opening 10 minutes as he struck the inside of the post, but at the other end Ricardo Costa should also have done better when he headed against the upright with the goal at his mercy.
Tino Costa also hit the woodwork with a thunderous strike from fully 30 yards that rattled the crossbar 10 minutes after the break, but Valencia were thankful for Vicente Guaita as he made fine saves from Angel Di Maria and Karim Benzema to keep the scoreline blank.
The draw means Barcelona are just four points behind Madrid with seven games to go, including el clasico at the Nou Camp later this month.
Real Madrid
have now drawn three of their last five league games.
have now drawn three of their last five league games.
Madrid did have a 10-point lead at one point, and in-form Barcelona could cut it down to just one if they defeat Getafe at home on Tuesday night before Real's derby date with Atletico the following day.
