The pressure was on Real Madrid to respond after Barcelona's 5-1 win over Mallorca on Tuesday, but they failed to match the result of their Clasico rivals as Carlo Ancelotti's side were defeated by Athletic Club in San Mamas.
Athletic were the better team in the first half as they nullified any threat from Real Madrid. They got their reward in the second period as Inaki Williams' dangerous cross was not dealt with, allowing Alex Berenguer to score from close range.
Real Madrid pushed for an equalizer and they had a great opportunity to score the equalizer when Antonio Rudiger was fouled by Julen Agirrezabala in the penalty area. However, Kylian Mbappé's effort was saved by Agirrezabala, who made up for his mistake.
Despite this, Real Madrid managed to find the equalizer thanks to Jude Bellingham, who scored for the fourth consecutive La Liga match (after goals against Osasuna, Leganes and Getafe). However, they were separated for just two minutes when Federico Valverde's mistake allowed Gorka Guruzeta to score – and it turned out to be the winner.
The result leaves Real Madrid four points behind Barcelona, although they still have a game in hand. Athletic Club remains fourth after the victory.
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