Emilio Butragueno has claimed that Real Madrid were unlucky to fall to a 1-0 defeat against Granada and lamented the team’s inability to find a way past the hosts’ defence.

A Cristiano Ronaldo own-goal midway through the first half consigned the Spanish champions to their fifth Liga defeat of the season, but the legendary striker feels they suffered from the Andalusians’ negative approach.

“Granada defended very well and we struggled,” the club director told their official website.

“We were not inspired. True, we had few chances, fewer than usual, but we did not have any luck. Their defensive structure blocked us, but you always have the hope that the individual quality appears.

“Karim Benzema had a chance to score. We tried to show up, but we could not today.”

Ronaldo has reportedly been playing through an ankle injury, but the 49-year-old is certain that the Portuguese put in his usual standard of performance.

“He played with the same intensity as always and wanted to win,” he added.

Barcelona could move 18 points clear of los Blancos with victory over Valencia on Sunday.