Real Madrid's lead at the top of La Liga has been cut to two points after Carlo Ancelotti's men were forced to accept their first league draw of the season, 1-1, against a much-changed but equally-impressive Villarreal side at the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday night.

Gerardo Moreno's second-half leveller secured the Yellow Submarine a point and ensured Madrid were no longer than only side in La Liga without a draw to their name. Cristiano Ronaldo had fired the hosts ahead in the 52nd minute from...

You can't really fault Carlo Ancelotti's tenure at Real Madrid. Delivering the Decima guaranteed plenty of leeway at the club, and galvanizing the squad after the fractious reign of predecessor Jose Mourinho was exactly why the affable Italian was hired. Real lead the league table going into March, are very much in the running to retain their European crown and by and large the players are focused entirely on the good of the collective. After less than two seasons at the Bernabeu, it really is...

Five thoughts gleaned from La Liga's weekend fixtures, as Real Madrid were held by Villarreal at the Bernabeu, while Barcelona continued to bounce back with a win over Granada, and Atletico were held by European-chasing Sevilla.

1. Isco not an untouchable galactico just yet

Real Madrid remain La Liga leaders after their 1-1 draw at home to Villarreal on Sunday night, but the game again showed how Isco has a ways to go before being confirmed as first choice for coach Carlo Ancelotti.

Pregame praise...