A slumped Iker Casillas, warming the bench.

There’s no doubt that this 2012-13 La Liga campaign has been rough for last season’s Champions, Real Madrid. In fact, it’s been atrocious. Los Blancos are 16 points (and counting) behind rivals, FC Barcelona as well as 13 points behind city rivals, Atletico Madrid at the end of 2012.

The match started of rocky when it was announced that Iker Casillas wouldn’t be tending the goal for Madrid making it the first time in 10 years he has been dropped due to a technical decision. The first half was the same as the second, Malaga wasn’t going to make things easy for Madrid. Deflecting  balls,counter-attacking and a strong defense allowed Malaga to control the match.

The scoreboard didn’t see a goal until the 49th minute from Isco, giving Adan no chance to deflect. Roque Santa Cruz netted two goals for Malaga. Karim Benzema scored a goal with 10 minutes to spare after an OG by Sergio Sanchez in the 66th minute.

Madrid was unable to find an equalizer and fell to their fourth defeat of the season, doubling their losses from last season. With the beginning of this campaign becoming more ad more intolerable, supporters are looking for an excuse. The harsh truth is there is no excuse. With constant injuries, morale in the Madrid club is falling.

But at least we still have Champions League.

Scores from Around the League

Real Betis 1-2 Mallorca

Real Valladolid 1-3 FC Barcelona

Osasuna 1-2 Granada

Athletic Bilbao – Real Zaragoza (Starts at 4pm ET)

Photo courtesy of Real Madrid C.F.