Vila-real (Spain), Dec 14 (IANS): Real Madrid lost a golden opportunity to cut the distance with league-leaders FC Barcelona in La Liga, succumbing to a shock 0-1 defeat against Villarreal.

In the match at La Madrigal stadium, the home squad really came out in fine style in the first half in front of 21,000 spectators. Ex-Madrid striker Roberto Soldado got them infront after a great pass by Bruno Soriano, reports Efe.

The two squads seemed rather evenly matched throughout the contest, although the fifth-ranked Villarreal showed a good deal more on defence, which saved it from a draw.

After the mid-game break, Villarreal seemed to lose a little steam, but the Madrid squad coached by Rafael Benitez could not seem to get anything going either.

With the result, Real Madrid - having suffered its third La Liga loss so far this season - now sits five points behind Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, the latter of which moved even with Barcelona on points with a 2-1 victory over Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.