Real Madrid held by Cadiz after thrilling contest

Cadiz and Real Madrid drew 1-1 on the penultimate weekend of the La Liga season in an action packed contest. Madrid took the lead in the fifth minute, but Cadiz punished a Militao error to get a deserved leveller after 37 minutes. Cadiz could have even won it, but they saw a second half penalty saved. Ancelotti’s side was made up of some players who had had less game time while the point for Cadiz means they are in the relegation zone after Mallorca’s late win against Rayo. Mallorca and Cadiz both have 36 points while Granada on 37 are not out of trouble either.

Cadiz, who were two points above the drop zone at kick-off, went to attack from the off and Akapo hit wide within seconds. The home side made their intent clear, but within five minutes, they were behind. Rodrygo made a superb run down the far side before cutting into the penalty box and squaring for Mariano who tapped in. 

That did not deter Cadiz though and they continued to threaten the Madrid goal. Asensio was denied by Ledesma at the other end, but then, in the 13th minute, Cadiz should have levelled. Negredo got himself into the box, but he was too unselfish and, instead of shooting, he passed for Lucas Perez at the back post and Nacho cleared for a corner. The game remained very open and the chances kept coming. 

Fali made a terrific pass from midfield for Idrissi and Madrid’s stand-in keeper Andriy Lunin had to turn the ball around the post with his left hand. However, seconds later, Cadiz got their leveller. Militao only managed to head the ball straight to Ruben Sobrino in the D, he controlled the ball and then his strike deflected off Militao’s back and went in with the help of the crossbar. 

Cadiz were not done and Negredo so nearly scored minutes later and then Eder Militao headed against the sidenetting at the other end after Cadiz goalkeeper Ledesma came out for a cross, but did not get to it. Cadiz had a draw at the interval, but the fact Mallorca were leading at home to Rayo meant Cadiz dropped into the bottom three on head to head.