24th August, 2015
Rafael Benitez’s reign as Real Madrid boss got off to a disappointing start as they were held to a goalless draw by promoted Sporting Gijon.
Sporting went closest when Antonio Sanabria’s header hit the crossbar and bounced down onto the line.
Real had 27 shots, but only eight on target and they were all straight at keeper Ivan Cuellar bar one Cristiano Ronaldo effort he tipped over.
Ronaldo was denied a penalty when Sergio Alvarez pulled him down.
That incident happened seconds after Sanabria’s effort in the first half.
Champions Barcelona won their opener 1-0 at Athletic Bilbao, with 2014 winners Atletico Madrid winning by the same scoreline against Las Palmas.
There have been only three goals in the opening seven matches of La Liga this season.