Real Madrid dropped two points in Valencia in a game that ended in controversy when referee Gil Manzano blew the final whistle moments before Jude Bellingham headed in what would have been a 3-2 winner for the league leaders.
The referee had told the players that a Real Madrid corner would be the last action of the game. But after Valencia half-cleared the ball, he ended the game as the ball was swung back into the Valencia box.
Gil Manzano then showed Bellingham a red card for his protests as he was surrounded by Madrid players claiming a goal.
Valencia had led 2-0 with Hugo Duro's header on 27 minutes and Roman Yaremchuk doubling their lead three minutes later after a dreadful Dani Carvajal backpass.
Vinicius Jr pulled Madrid back into the game from close range in the first half injury time and he scored the equalizer in the 76th minute to set up an intense end to the game which also saw Valencia defender Mouctar Diakhaby suffer a bad-looking knee injury.
Sevilla continued to climb away from the danger zone towards mid-table with a 3-2 win at home to Real Sociedad, who had a bad week after losing in the Copa del Rey on Tuesday.
Youssef En-Nesyri scored for Sevilla in the 11th and 13th minutes. Although Andre Silva cut the deficit in the 45th minute with a penalty kick after a Sergio Ramos handball, Ramos assured the win with a 65th minute header. Brais Mendez's 92nd minute free kick meant a nervous end for the home fans. — Xinhua