Ronaldo backheel goal saves Real at Bernabeu

Against a mid-range opponent, coach Zinedine Zidane used Real's strongest starting lineup. Ronaldo and Benzema were the two players in attack, while Modric, Kroos, Asensio and Lucas Vazquez supported right behind.

Thanks to their familiar style of play, Real quickly put pressure on Bilbao. In the ninth minute, Ronaldo had a diving header in the penalty area that bounced off the crossbar. The Portuguese star also created another dangerous situation when he dribbled and curled the ball wide of the post.

Not an easy opponent to beat, Bilbao organized a number of counterattacks. The away team even achieved an early result when they unexpectedly opened the score in the 14th minute. From a through ball from a teammate, Inaki Williams ran down and skillfully chipped the ball past goalkeeper Keylor Navas.

Williams lobbed the ball to open the scoring for Bilbao.

The early goal forced Real to play with more concentration. However, getting past the Bilbao defense and goalkeeper Kepa was no easy task. At the end of the first half, Kepa made two excellent saves when facing Ronaldo's low shot in the box and Marcelo's long-range volley.

The second half was not much different from the first 45 minutes. Real played better but could not do anything to Bilbao's defense. Goalkeeper Kepa continued to stand firm against shots from Ronaldo, Modric and Asensio.

Real's attacks often lack a bit of precision in finishing.

Facing the risk of losing the match, coach Zidane had to send in Isco and Bale from the 69th minute. The presence of two dribbling experts helped Real's attacks become more diverse.

Not disappointing the fans' expectations, Real's efforts brought results in the 87th minute. From Modric's diagonal shot into the penalty area, Ronaldo performed a backheel, causing the ball to change direction and go into the net.

Ronaldo once again plays the role of savior for Real. Photo: Reuters

Without losing at home, Real maintained their third place in La Liga with 68 points. The defending champions are now three points ahead of fourth-placed Valencia, while three points behind second-placed Atletico (having played one game less).

With the gap behind Barca now standing at 15 points (with five games to go), Real are all but certain to become former champions. This will happen if Real drop more points, or if Barca draw or win another game.