It was more akin to a game of chess than a football match as both sides cancelled each other out in midfield and the first chance came when Sergio Busquets headed straight at Iker Casillas from a corner after 20 minutes.

As the half wore on Madrid began to suffer their physical efforts and Barcelona carved out a series of chances, Casillas produced good saves to deny Messi twice and David Villa, while Messi also shot wide when he usually hits the target.

All Madrid offered in reply was a break from Ronaldo, whose low cross to De Maria was cut out by Barca keeper Victor Valdes.

The second half began in controversial fashion as Higuain put the ball into the Barca net only for the referee to rule his effort out for a previous foul from Ronaldo, who was unfortunate to bring down Mascherano after losing balance.

Pedro Rodriguez opened the scoring after 53 minutes, finishing low with his left foot following a magnificent Iniesta pass.

The goal left Madrid needing to score three goals to qualify and they looked to have lost concentration for a few minutes before De Maria helped set Marcelo up for the equalizer on 65 minutes. De Maria saw a shot rebound off the post and when it dropped at his feet, he kept his calm to tee up Marcelo from close range.

It was the first and only shot Madrid managed on target all night and although Ronaldo threatened on occasions to create clear chances in the closing minutes.

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