Osasuna continue in relegation zone after defeat

The match between Osasuna and Real Madrid was likely to be very interesting. On the one hand, Osasuna had to fight in order to get out of relegation zone and on the other hand, Real Madrid had to win the Spanish league title.

Real midfielder Mahamadou Diarra had easily the best opportunity of the half after 25 minutes - the Mali international prompting a good save from Osasuna goalkeeper Ricardo from long range.

The second half started badly for Madrid with the shock dismissal of talismanic defender Fabio Cannavaro.

The 34-year-old Italian international clearly felt the pressure of the occasion and he was forced to leave the field after committing his second bookable offence.

Real Madrid’s woes were further compounded with less than ten minutes remaining on the clock.

Defender Gabriel Heinze was penalised for a handball in the penalty area and the hosts were awarded a penalty.

Francisco Puñal calmly stepped up to slot the ball past Iker Casillas and raise the possibility of defeat for the potential league champions.

However, Madrid demonstrated their tenacity and 'never say die' attitude four minutes later when winger Arjen Robben nodded in a rare header to level the scoreline.

Gonzalo Higuain capped a remarkable reversal of fortunes with the match winner in the dying seconds.

The 20-year-old French-born Argentine international found space on the right flank and beat 'keeper Ricardo with a thundering drive in the final minute.

Despite a few frantic moments as the clock ticked down, Madrid held their lead to claim the title as they have an unassailable 79-point lead with three games remaining.

The result left Osasuna third from bottom and further ensconced in a relegation battle.