Real Madrid suffers the ninth defeat of their season at the hands of a resurgent Valencia

Zinedine Zidane in post-match press conference. (Image credit: skysports)

Real Madrid’s sub-par campaign continued as they suffered another loss to Valencia, falling to a 2-1 defeat at the Mestalla on Wednesday. This was their ninth defeat this season in La Liga and their first since Zinedine Zidane was reinstated as their manager.

Portugese International Goncalo Guedes opened the scoring for Valencia in the 35th minute, firing a screamer into Madrid’s goal to which Keylor Navas had no answer.

Real were looking in good control in the first half but just until the 35th minute, following which, a well-drilled Valencia side gave very little chance to Madrid to get back there rhythm.

Valencia tightened their grips on the game with the lead and continued to threaten in the second half as well before doubling their lead with a header from defender Ezekquiel Garay in the 83rd minute.

Having won the the first two home gains against Celta Vigo and Huesca, it was Zidane’s first away game since returning. And as he mentioned ahead of the match he made big changes to the side by bringing in Tony Kroos, Luka Modric and Navas while Gareth Bale and Isco were on the bench.

Madrid are currently at 57 points, 13 points behind league leaders Barcelona and 5 points behind second place Athletico Madrid.

Madrid star Casemeiro told (h/t Reuters):

We know that this has been a difficult year and we are working hard to make sure we come back stronger next season and I'm sure we will.

We were in control for the first half then they scored and got more confident. We worked hard in the second half and tried to get back in the game but goals are what count. This defeat is difficult for us, we know we are not doing well but we must keep working.

With this win, Valencia stretched their unbeaten run to 17 games. They have reached Copa del Rey finals and quarter-finals of Europa League and are currently eyeing Champions League qualification as they are one point behind fourth-placed Getafe in La Liga.

Karim Benzema pulled one goal back in the stoppage time before a penalty appeal of theirs was denied after VAR confirmed Ramos was off-side.