MADRID : Real Madrid spurned several chances as they were held to a 0-0 draw at home by Rayo Vallecano on Sunday to leave them second in the table behind Girona.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side are on 29 points, two behind unexpected leaders Girona who won 4-2 at Osasuna on Saturday.
Third-place Barcelona have 27 points after a dramatic 1-0 win at Real Sociedad.
The hosts dominated from the start but could not score despite piling on the pressure throughout and recording 22 shots.
Rayo produced a strong defensive display, led by their goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski, who kept out efforts from Fede Valverde and Joselu in the first half.
Vinicius Jr thought he had given Real the lead in the 66th minute, but saw his effort ruled out for a previous offside.
The Spanish giants next host Braga in the Champions League on Wednesday.