Depleted Real Madrid pay the penalty against Villarreal

Los Blancos held to frustrating draw at the Estadio de la Ceramica

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Real Madrid conceded a fourth penalty in two games as they drew 1-1 at Villarreal on Saturday, dropping points for the second game in a row.

Los Blancos, looking to respond from the 4-1 defeat at Valencia before the international break, took an early lead through Mariano.

Moreno had missed a couple of opportunities to haul his side level, but made sure of a share of the points when he converted from the spot with 14 minutes left.

Real captain Sergio Ramos missed out after sustaining a hamstring problem in Spain's Nations League win over Germany. Eden Hazard made his first appearance since November 3 following a positive Covid-19 test.

Los Blancos were in front after just two minutes at Estadio de la Ceramica when Dominican Republic forward Mariano headed home at the back post. The goal was allowed to stand after a VAR check for a possible offside in the build-up.

The Yellow Submarine, who were looking to move top of the table with another home win, went close to an equaliser on 21 minutes.

Moreno floated a ball into the penalty area from the left, but Daniel Parejo sent his free header over the crossbar.

Real Madrid almost went further ahead on 32 minutes when Dani Carvajal drilled an angled shot into the side netting.

Just before half-time, Mariano's effort hit the post after a quick counter attack, but the offside flag was up.

Real had another chance to extend their lead five minutes into the second half, but Lucas Vazquez curled his shot over after being picked out by Mariano.

Just before the hour, Villarreal should have been on level terms when the visitors were caught in possession when trying to play out from the back. Manu Trigueros quickly fed Gerard Moreno, but his shot was dragged just wide of the far post.

Villarreal boss Unai Emery made a triple change to freshen up the side as Samuel Chukwueze, Yeremi Pino and Pervis Estupinan all came on.

With 20 minutes left, the hosts created another good opening when Ecuador left-back Estupinan got away down the flank and his low cross was met by Parejo. But the veteran former Real midfielder sent a first-time effort wide.

Villarreal were awarded a penalty in the 75th minute when Courtois brought down Chukwueze as the striker raced into the box. Moreno dispatched the spotkick past the dive of the Belgian number one to draw the home side level.

Villarreal remained on the offensive and Raphael Varane produced a brave block to deny Moreno what looked a certain second goal as the visitors held out for a point.