Real Madrid frustrated by Elche to leave Atletico clear at top

Football - La Liga Santander - Elche v Real Madrid - Estadio Manuel Martinez Valero, Elche, Spain - December 30, 2020. Real Madrid's Karim Benzema shoots at goal. [REUTERS/Juan Medina]

Real Madrid were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw at struggling Elche on Wednesday, losing ground in the LaLiga title race to leaders Atletico Madrid.

A header from Luka Modric gave the champions the lead in the 20th minute but Elche found a way back into the game when Fidel Chaves levelled from the penalty spot early in the second half.

Both sides had chances to take all three points, with Elche forward Lucas Boye striking the post, while Real defenders Dani Carvajal and Sergio Ramos were each thwarted by fine saves from the home side's keeper Edgar Badia.

The draw halted a six-game winning streak in all competitions for Real and left them second in the standings on 33 points, two behind city rivals Atletico who also have two games in hand. Elche are 15th on 16 points. 

Elche's Gonzalo Verdu is shown a yellow card by referee Jorge Vazquez. [REUTERS/Juan Medina]