Mariano Diaz scores as much-changed Real Madrid draw on the road at Cadiz

A heavily rotated Real Madrid were held by relegation-threatened Cadiz in their final away game in this season's La Liga. With the Champions League final against Liverpool approaching, Carlo Ancelotti decided to rest Karim Benzema and Vinicius Junior while Luka Modric missed the game through suspension.

Ad/> Despite this, the champions raced into an early lead, opening the scoring after just five minutes through Mariano Diaz who tapped home following a fine run and cross from Rodrygo. Champions LeagueKlopp hopeful over Salah and Van Dijk injuriesYESTERDAY AT 19:09 Cadiz's response was immediate and with the pressure on they created a host of chances before Ruben Sobrino finally levelled matters in the 37th minute with a deflected shot that hit the crossbar before crossing the line.

Oussama Idrissi, Alvaro Negredo and Lucas Perez all had opportunities in a one-sided first half and Real Madrid were fortunate to be level at half-time. Cadiz continued to play with the same high intensity after the break and on the hour-mark Negredo won a penalty after being fouled by Andriy Lunin, but the goalkeeper made amends to save the 36-year-old's spot-kick.

The hosts were made to rue such a huge opportunity as they had to settle for a point, leaving them in the relegation zone going into the final round of fixtures. Real Madrid remain 12 points clear at the top of the table after Barcelona drew with Getafe.