Real Madrid's Brazilian forward #07 Vinicius Junior (right) heads the ball during the Spanish league football match between Real Madrid CF and Rayo Vallecano de Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid on Nov 5, 2023. (PHOTO / AFP)

MADRID - Real Madrid spurned several chances as they were held to a 0-0 draw at home by Rayo Vallecano on Sunday to leave them second in the table behind Girona.

The hosts dominated from the start but could not score despite piling on the pressure throughout and recording 22 shots.

It was the first time this season that Real have failed to score and the result left Carlo Ancelotti's side on 29 points, two behind unexpected leaders Girona who won 4-2 at Osasuna on Saturday.

Third-place Barcelona have 27 points after a dramatic 1-0 win at Real Sociedad.

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Rayo Vallecano produced a strong defensive display, led by their goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski, who kept out efforts from Federico Valverde and Joselu in the first half

"I'm not worried about not scoring, we've tried in many ways, it hasn't worked out and that can happen," coach Ancelotti said.

"The match was good, with a good attitude and a lot of chances, we lacked a good goal, we are hurt by the result but the match was good in my opinion."

Rayo produced a strong defensive display, led by their goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski, who kept out efforts from Federico Valverde and Joselu in the first half.

Vinicius Jr thought he had given Real the lead in the 66th minute, but saw his effort ruled out for a previous offside.

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"It was a very comprehensive game from the team," Rayo striker Raul de Tomas told DAZN. "We know what this stadium is like but we have made a great effort and I am very proud of my team mates."

The Spanish giants next host Braga in the Champions League on Wednesday.