Bale returns as Real Madrid held by Villarreal

Real Madrid’s Welsh forward Gareth Bale controls the ball during the Spanish league football match between Villarreal CF and Real Madrid CF at La Ceramica stadium in Vila-real on February 12, 2022. (Photo by JOSE JORDAN / AFP)

Real Madrid was held to a goalless draw at Villarreal on Saturday despite the return from a lengthy injury absence of Gareth Bale.

The La Liga leaders’ slip-up will give renewed hope to title rivals Sevilla after their 2-0 win over Elche on Friday.

Carlo Ancelotti’s Real moved four points clear of second-placed Sevilla at the top as they look to regain the crown they lost to Atletico Madrid last season.

Real struggled in the first half before creating chances after the break but could not find the net. They have scored just once in their last three games.

Real Madrid’s Welsh forward Gareth Bale (R) jumps to kick the ball during the Spanish league football match between Villarreal CF and Real Madrid CF at La Ceramica stadium in Vila-real on February 12, 2022. (Photo by JOSE JORDAN / AFP)

“I’m worried about the team when we don’t look for a chance to score, we looked for it. We lacked effectiveness.”

The draw moves Unai Emery’s Villarreal up to fifth, only two points behind Barcelona in the fourth and final Champions League spot.

Real Madrid’s Welsh forward Gareth Bale reacts during the Spanish league football match between Villarreal CF and Real Madrid CF at La Ceramica stadium in Vila-real on February 12, 2022. (Photo by JOSE JORDAN / AFP)

Bale was surprisingly named in the starting line-up for his first appearance for Real Madrid since August.

He has suffered from various injuries in the months since, although he has played four times for Wales.

“He had a serious injury,” said Ancelotti. “The important thing