Real held by Valencia

Real Madrid dominated the play at home to Valencia in their season opener, but were held to a draw after a chaotic set-piece.

Gonzalo Higuain was selected ahead of Karim Benzema and duly repaid Jose Mourinho’s faith by opening the scoring on 10. However, Los Che equalised through Brazilian Jonas, who met a free-kick to head into an empty goal.

In that set-play, Iker Casillas, Pepe and Xabi Alonso clashed in mid-flight, with Casillas and Pepe requiring several minutes of attention just before the break.

The second half was a more tepid affair and Valencia will feel aggrieved that Roberto Soldado’s one-on-one opportunity against Casillas was pulled back for an incorrect offside call.

Real struggled to break through their opponents and ultimately had to settle for a point at home to Los Che for the second consecutive season in a row.

Real Madrid 1-1 Valencia match report.

Meanwhile Athletic Bilbao played out a thrilling encounter with Real Betis at San Mames. Without Javi Martinez and Fernando Llorente in their ranks, the home side were desolate in the first period, going down 3-0 to a Benat Etxeberria-inspired Betis.

However, after half-time, Marcelo Bielsa’s men managed to fight back to draw level, before Pepe Mel’s side scored two more themselves to finish with the three points and five goals to their name.

Athletic Bilbao 3-5 Real Betis match report.

Tags Higuain Jonas
La Liga - Club News