Valencia brought Real Madrid back down to earth at The Mestalla on Sunday as they crushed Los Blancos hopes of obtaining the world record winning streak, and in doing so, blew the BBVA title race wide open. Carlo Ancelotti's men had won their last 22 games in all competitions before this encounter got under way, and high-flying Valencia seemed adamant from first whistle that they did not want to concede defeat like the last 22 opponents Real have faced. 

Things didn't get off to the best of starts though for Nuno Santo's side although they originally started the game brightly. Cristiano Ronaldo dispatched a penalty for his 26h La Liga goal of the season after Manchester City loanee Alvaro Negredo handled inside his own box from Gareth Bale's flick on. Real could have easily widened the gap, Ronaldo especially, he rounded Diego Alves who clashed clumsily with Mustafi, and could only hit the side netting with the goal at his mercy. The failure to convert some of the chances the visitors created would later prove costly and was punished. 

Andre Gomes came close to levelling before the break, his deflected shot came off of the post. Alcacer also went close, firing just over. Valencia started the second half positively, and were rewarded when Antonio Barragan's deflected effort fortunately beat Casillas to draw the home side level, his first goal in nearly eight years, despite the deflection off of Pepe. After equalising, Valencia really looked the team to go on and win the game, but remained aware of the persistent threat Real possess on the counter attack through James, Ronaldo, Bale and Benzema, who can score a goal out if nothing. Defensive concentration remained intact, and it was a defender who became the hero when Otamendi powered home Parejo's corner in the 65th minute. Valencia failed to extend their lead, Barragan fired wide of Casillas goal, a brace from the goal scoring rarity would have been probably a bit too much to ask for... 

The BBVA leaders surged wave of attack in attempt to restore parity, Isco, Ronaldo and Sergio Ramos all went close but the home side remained resistant and compact to earn three vital points in the race for UEFA Champions League football, condemning Real to a first defeat since September.