Bale returns as Real Madrid held by Villarreal

Real Madrid`s Welsh forward Gareth Bale controls the ball during the Spanish league football match between Villarreal CF and Real Madrid CF at La Ceramica stadium in Vila-real. Pic/AFP

Real Madrid were held to a goalless draw at Villarreal on Saturday despite the return from a lengthy injury absence of Gareth Bale.

The La Liga leaders' slip-up will give renewed hope to title rivals Sevilla after their 2-0 win over Elche on Friday. Carlo Ancelotti's Real moved four points clear of second-placed Sevilla at the top as they look to regain the crown they lost to Atletico Madrid last season.

Real top La Liga on 54 with Sevilla on 50 and Real Betis are third way back on 40 points. Struggling champions Atletico Madrid edged Getafe 4-3 in Saturday's late match to climb to fourth on 39 points but trail Real by a distant 15 points.

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