Enrique ecstatic as Messi magic sends Real reeling
side’s adventurous approach with 10 men after scoring late to knot the score 2-2.
Messi canceled out Casemiro’s opener before halftime, but Barca looked well on the road to victory when Ivan Rakitic’s stunning strike put the visitor ahead 2-1 before Madrid captain Ramos was sent off for a wild lunge on Messi.
However, Madrid rallied when a man down as substitute James Rodriguez fired home an equalizer four minutes from time.
“Drawing the game with 10 men, to press high up the field is dangerous and we paid for that,” said Zidane.
“I can’t criticize the players for anything, though. We gave our all, but we didn’t manage to get the three points.
“We didn’t deserve to lose, but that is soccer.”
Madrid now needs to take at least 16 points from its final six matches to clinch the title.
“There will be much more of a title race now, but it is still in our own hands,” added Zidane.
Madrid was also dealt a fresh injury blow for the remainder of its league season and upcoming Champions League semifinal against Atletico Madrid as Gareth Bale faces another spell on the sidelines.
The Welshman lasted just 38 minutes on his return after missing the last two games with persistent ankle problems.
“I don’t regret anything,” said Zidane over his decision to start Bale.
“I am disappointed for him. He started the game well and then the injuries we can’t control.
“We will see what exactly is the extent of Gareth’s injury and hope it is as little as possible.”