Real Madrid suffer worst goalless run in 33 years

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Julen Lopetegui insisted it is too early to be questioning his future despite Real Madrid suffering a shock defeat by Alaves on Saturday to make it four games without a victory.

It is four games without a goal too for the European champions, their longest scoring drought since 1985, as Manu Garcia headed home in the 95th minute to send the Mendizorrotza Stadium wild.

It is the first time they have beaten Madrid at home in 87 years.

Alaves fans ran onto the pitch to celebrate their stunning 1-0 win and the chants continued long after the final whistle.

For Real, this was another body blow and to make matters worse, Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema, their chief attacking threats, were both forced off injured. Bale had missed the Champions League loss to CSKA Moscow on Tuesday with a groin strain.

It means Barcelona can go three points clear if they win their game in hand against Valencia on Sunday while Alaves' excellent start to the season continues. They move up to third, level on points with Real.

Real Madrid coach Julen Lopetegui gestures to his players on the pitch as he stands on the sideline during the match between Alaves and Real Madrid on October 6, 2018. /VCG Photo

Lopetegui had been asked on Friday if he felt under pressure at the club he left Spain for on the eve of the World Cup and the question was put to him again after the match here.

"It interests you but is not a question that concerns me," Lopetegui said.

"We know what the life of a coach is, especially at Real Madrid, but we also know it is October and you have to keep perspective and stay calm."

Captain Sergio Ramos was more emphatic. "It's other people who make those decisions but it's never good to have a change of coach," he said. "It would be crazy."

Talk of change feels premature but it will increase if Madrid fail to find fluency soon and, in particular, if Barca pull away. The Clasico at the Camp Nou looms at the end of the month.

"We are disappointed," Lopetegui added. "In the end, defeat is a harsh punishment."

Thibaut Courtois took over from Keylor Navas in goal and was at fault for Alaves' winner. The Belgian edged out but failed to claim a cross, leaving Garcia to head into any empty net.

Source(s): AFP