Real's league agony continues

Real Madrid's problems in the league hit a new low on Sunday evening when they could only muster a 1-1 draw against Celta Vigo.

Real took off to a great start with Zinedine Zidane, back after a bout of gastroenteritis, brushing the post in the opening minutes. But it was Celta who went ahead following a series of howlers in the Real defence - a corner from the left was fumbled by a helpless Iker Casillas leaving Henrique Catanha to tap over the line without any problems.

Both teams turned up the pace of the game which reached fever pitch when Jose Maria Gutierrez equalized for Real in the 25th minute, the 24-year-old star chested down Zidane's through ball and nonchalantly lobbed over Cavallero amid heated calls for offside from the Galician visitors.

Luis Figo came close to putting Real in the lead just before half-time, the Portuguese ace cut inside to see his effort lash against the Celta bar to a groan from the home crowd. The Madrilenos struggled to create many clear chances in the second half, much to the
disappointment of the spectators.

Celta threatened with Gustavo Lopez going close with a 59th minute free-kick and then Brazilian sub Edu skimmed Casillas's post with a low drive late on in the half.

The result is bound to cause upset at Real, who in 15th place with 10 points are experiencing their worst start to the league in their history.

Celta Vigo go second in the table with 17 points although they lose ground on Galician neighbours Deportivo, who top La Primera with 20 points.