Real Lose to Atletico

Real Madrid stumbled to defeat to Athletico Bilbao, with Ronaldo and Kaka failing to sparkle in a hard-fought contest.

The game couldn't have gotten off to a more intense start as Gurpegui and Toquero hit back-to-back posts in the opening minute. Sixty seconds later, Llorente found the back of the net following a corner by Yeste and clearance attempt by Lassana.

Real Madrid took possession but never managed to strike gold. Ronaldo had several chances in the first half, but the score remained unchanged. Near the half-hour mark, Iraizoz cleared a shot by Cristiano straight up into the air and the ball nearly crossed the goalline as it fell back to the turf.

Ronaldo had another try from distance, but the best scoring chance of the half was yet to come. Kaka provided a brilliant ball to Benzema, who sent the shot off the far post and into the hands of Iraizoz.

Real Madrid were bound to score, but it didn't happen when Cristiano combined with Kaka and the Brazilian's shot grazed off the post. Nor did the Whites equalize when Kaka sent another strike inches wide of goal, by wayward shots off the boots of Ramos and Raul or two more attempts by Cristiano. Real Madrid did not score the goal they so deserved and the three points stayed put at San Mames.