A set-back for leaders Real Madrid on Wednesday evening, Zidane’s side losing the first of the two games they have in hand over the teams below them. Hosts Valencia raced in to a two goal lead in the first ten minutes, Zaza hooking a shot on the turn past Keylor Navas after controlling a cross from Munir, and fellow new signing Orellana making it two after Nani put him through. Soon afterwards Marcelo deflected a shot from Munir over the bar, and Navas had to be at his best to keep out a Dani Parejo free kick. Diego Alves had to keep out an effort from Benzema at the other end though, and with the first half coming to a close Cristiano Ronaldo headed one back from Marcelo’s centre. The Ches held on after the restart however, Alves saving again from Marcelo and Enzo Pérez blocking a late header from substitute Bale, and they could have gone further ahead had penalty appeals by Zaza and Munir not been turned down by the referee. The defeat leaves Madrid just a point ahead of second placed Barcelona, still having played one game less, but a great boost for the locals, who are now moving well clear of the danger zone. (24.02.17)