Madrid were level in the latter stages of the first period, however, when Cristiano Ronaldo thumped an effort into the bottom corner from close range.

Both sides had chances in the second period, but neither could find the breakthrough as the points were shared.

Here, Sports Mole dissects the 90 minutes of action between the two La Liga rivals.

Match statistics:

Real Zaragoza:
Shots: 11
On target: 5
Possession: 35%
Corners: 3
Fouls: 17

Real Madrid:
Shots: 13
On target: 6
Possession: 65%
Corners: 3
Fouls: 16

Was the result fair?

On the balance of play, a point apiece was just about a fair reflection of the events this evening. Zaragoza were the better side in the early stages, but Madrid were in control for large periods. The expected onslaught from the Spanish champions just never arrived, while Zaragoza almost won it with a Helder Postiga header late on.

Real Zaragoza's performance

Zaragoza certainly did not look like a side that had not won in 2013. They made the best possible start to the evening with that Rodri strike, but just could not hold onto the lead in the first period. There were no signs of nervousness in the second half as they pushed for the winner, but they were forced to settle for a share of the spoils.

Real Madrid's performance

It was not the most impressive of performances from Madrid with coach Jose Mourinho ringing the changes ahead of the Champions League quarter-finals next week. They were the better side in the second period, but never did enough to deserve all three points. Victory for Atletico Madrid tomorrow would move the capital side back into second.

Sports Mole's man of the match

Luka Modric: It was hardly a match full of star performers, but the Croatian was the pick of the bunch this evening. Following a difficult start to life in Spain, he has emerged into a key player in this Madrid side.

Biggest gaffe of the match

Zaragoza goalkeeper Roberto Jimenez made a number of fine saves in the first period, but he must take the blame for the Madrid equaliser. Ronaldo's effort was hit with venom, but his positioning was all wrong. A rare blip from the keeper who has had a good season.

Referee performance

Alberto Undiano had a fairly solid 90 minutes of action this evening. The Spaniard was forced into a number of decisions in the first period, but did not let the atmosphere influence him. Overall, neither side would have had many complaints about his performance.

What next?

Real Zaragoza: The home side face a relegation six-pointer next weekend when they welcome basement outfit Deportivo La Coruna.

Real Madrid: Madrid are in Champions League action next week when they welcome Galatasaray to Madrid in the first leg of their last-eight clash.