Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata admitted Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Las Palmas was a blow to his team’s La Liga title chances, but added there was no need to make a drama out of one result.
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The visitors’ lead lasted just five minutes however, as Pedro Tana picked up a poor clearance from Raphael Varane before slotting the ball home.
Two minutes later Morata broke down the middle and fed Ronaldo, whose shot was parried by Varas straight into the path of Benzema, the France striker lashing the ball high into the net.
The Portuguese looked deeply unimpressed to be substituted with 18 minutes to go, and his mood would not have been improved when Las Palmas equalised with five minutes left through Sergio Araujo.
“I don’t like to say he is 100 percent, but we are happy with him”.
Keylor Navas last played for Real Madrid in their victory against cross-town rivals Atletico Madrid in last year’s Champions League final victory. “Kiko (Casilla) has done very well and I will talk to the two of them to see what we can organise (playing time)”.
Of most concern for Madrid is their leaky defence as they have now kept just one clean sheet in their last six games.
Cristiano Ronaldo was brought off after just 72 minutes against Las Palmas.
The Merengues did get the opener however, after an impressive run and shot from Nacho Fernandez leading to a rebound for Asensio.
Varas also saved from Ronaldo midway through the second half, but substitute Benzema was on hand to turn home the loose ball.
Karim Benzema restored Real’s lead three minutes after coming on, only for Araujo to earn the hosts a point.
“We’re disappointed. We had the game under control and they only had a few chances in the second half”, said the France global.
Yet, Barca coach Luis Enrique was far from satisfied with his side’s display, particularly early in the second half.
A fine team goal put the game beyond Sporting moments later as Neymar freed Sergi Roberto down the right and Rafinha met his cross with a powerful near-post header.
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Athletic Bilbao leapfrogged Sevilla into third place with a 3-1 win at San Mames.
