Barcelona closes gap on Real Madrid

MADRID, Nov. 9 (Xinhua) -- Real Madrid was held to a 0-0 draw away to Rayo Vallecano on Sunday to drop points in La Liga for just the second time this season.

Xabi Alonso's side failed to create clear chances after its midweek Champions League defeat to Liverpool, while Rayo pressed effectively to keep the leaders at bay and limit Kylian Mbappe.

Rayo's display drew extra credit given the side coached by I