Real Madrid suffered a surprise 2-1 defeat at struggling Valencia on Wednesday as they missed the opportunity to extend their lead at the top of La Liga after losing for only the second time in the league this season.

Simone Zaza, who endured an unhappy loan spell at West Ham United this season, gave Valencia the lead in the fifth minute with a brilliant shot on the turn and Fabian Orellana added the second in the ninth.

Cristiano Ronaldo headed Real back into contention just before half-time but the visitors were unable to build on their momentum after the interval.

Real remain top on 52 points, one ahead of Barcelona and three clear of Sevilla in third, and still have one game in hand on both of their rivals.