Real Madrid were handed a cruel blow to their La Liga title hopes after maverick forward Cristiano Ronaldo was forced off with an injury.
Ronaldo limped off after eight minutes of the 1-1 draw away at Real Valladolid, as Real struggled to a draw, with Humberto Osorio heading in a late equaliser for the hosts.
The Portuguese captain had just returned to the first team fold following a series of niggling injuries, and was captured by Television camara’s holding his hamstring.
And the 29 year old is now a major doubt for the La Liga run in, and of course the European Cup Final in Lisbon, against City neighbour’s Atletico Madrid, with Real somewhat revolving their side around the winger, who has netted 31 Liga goals in 30 games.
Madrid are already without Gareth Bale, and he too is out with a recent injury he sustained, with the Welsh winger a doubt for the title run in, with the Final in Lisbon in 17 days time.
Bale was missing for the draw, and Madrid will certainly be sweating on their £90 million man, who has impressed at the Bernebeu this season, having scored 14 La Liga goals in his debut season.
Real boss Carlo Ancelotti stated to Spanish Television following the draw in Northern Spain.
I don’t think Cristiano’s problem is a big thing, but Pepe didn’t end the game in good shape and we will see with Di Maria, although that shouldn’t be too serious either,” said the Italian Ancelotti.
Madrid now trail leaders Atletico by four points, with two La Liga fixtures left.
By Ben Reardon
@BenReardon1
