Real share spoils with Malaga

Real could only draw 1-1 at the Bernabeu on Saturday with Malaga, after The Merengues failed to capitalise on Roberto Carlos's early strike.

The Brazilian's 14th-minute goal wasn't enough to put paid to a spirited Malaga side, who levelled though Fernando Sanz, son of former Real Chairman Lorenzo Sanz, with 15 minutes remaining.

The Merengues began briskly, with Zinedine Zidane looking alert and Steve McManaman, filling in for the suspended Figo, making typical runs down the right.

Carlos opened the scoring from a rebounded free-kick, he collected the ball and fired a low shot which ricocheted off a defender into the corner of Coque Contreras's net.

The Whites continued to make chances, but as the game wore on it was clear they lacked a traditional centre-forward.

Malaga persisted with Dario Silva who only made a handful of half-chances, while at the other end it was McManaman who failed to capitalise when a dazzling move inspired by Zidane.

In the second half both sides lost any shape they had had in the first 45 minutes, and a goal looked likely at either end.

Real began to look worried that they might drop points, as they fizzled out lacking weight up front, and their worst fears were confirmed when Sanz rifled in from close range after a Silva header had hit the post and bar.

In a last effort to take three points, Real won a dangerous free-kick, but Contreras was a match for Zidane's effort.

Coach Vicente del Bosque's men will have to find more inspiration from somewhere – and play with a targetman – if they are to mount a serious title challenge in their centenary season.