Real Madrid suffered a big blow to their La Liga title aspirations on Friday, as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Girona.
The result leaves Barcelona in firm control of the title race, who can extend their lead to nine points with victory against Espanyol.
Despite the damaging draw, manager Alvaro Arbeloa is not ready to concede defeat, insisting they ‘haven’t lost La Liga’ yet.
On being asked about Madrid’s title hopes, Arbeloa said: “I’ll only accept that we’ve lost it on the day it actually happens. Until then, we keep fighting.”
Confidence was already low in Madrid’s camp before Friday’s home clash with Girona.
Los Blancos suffered a 2-1 defeat at Real Mallorca last weekend, and then lost by the same scoreline in midweek against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
Arbeloa fielded a weakened team against Mallorca, but opted for a full-strength side against Girona.
However, all their big stars failed to produce the goods as the first half ended goalless.
The match sprang into life after the break, as Federico Valverde beat goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga with a low strike in the 51st minute.
The hosts’ lead didn’t last long, as Thomas Lemar struck with a superb finish 11 minutes later.
Madrid searched for a winner, but Girona held on to secure a point at the Estadio Bernabeu.
Arbeloa’s side cannot dwell long on the disappointing result, as they head to Germany to face Bayern for the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final.
The Bavarians have lost only two games throughout this season, so Madrid must produce a special performance to beat them on their home turf next week.
