Real Madrid have played out a goalless first half with Granada in their La Liga encounter at the Santiago Bernabeu, but had opportunities to take the lead during a largely dominant opening period for the title contenders.

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The hosts came close to opening the scoring when Angel di Maria's cross was met by Sergio Ramos, but the defender headed over from close range as Granada's keeper Roberto tried to claim the cross and got nowhere the ball.

Midway through the first half, Los Blancos wasted another clear chance when Marcelo delivery was met on the volley by Karim Benzema and his shot whistled past the post.

As Real continued to enjoy the better of the game, they almost broke the deadlock on the half-hour mark when Benzema put the ball in the back of the net from close range, only to be flagged for offside.

Both sides pushed forward as they looked to find the opening goal, but despite Granada's hard work, the better chances fell to the home side, who were almost ahead on the stroke of half time.

Cristiano Ronaldo produced a dazzling bicycle kick and, when the ball seemed destined to nestle in the back of the net, Roberto was on hand to keep it out.

A win for Real would see them move to the top of La Liga for the first time since they were crowned champions of Spain in 2012.

They are currently a point behind leaders Barcelona, with Atletico Madrid in second place.