Valencia vs. Real Madrid: Goals and Highlights from 2016 La Liga Game

There was a reunion between two former Manchester United heroes at the Mestalla on Sunday as Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo came up against a Valencia side managed by Gary Neville in a highly anticipated La Liga clash.

"

VINE - Beautiful connection from Benzema, Bale, and Cristiano to set up the team's first goal. https://t.co/kQLVjLOOKL

— BlancoStats (@BlancoStats) January 3, 2016"

But Valencia drew level just before half-time, with Daniel Parejo converting from the spot after Pepe had fouled Andre Gomes in the box.

"

¡Dani Parejo! El canterano marcándole al club que lo vio crecer por la vía penal. Se empata el partido https://t.co/6upXh5Eg6x

— The Chips (@TheChips_Futbol) January 3, 2016"

The game took a controversial turn after 68 minutes, when Ronaldo was denied a penalty moments before Mateo Kovacic was shown a straight red card for a nasty lunge on Joao Cancelo.

"

Straight red for Kovacic! https://t.co/xdVAwSRkKb

— 101 Great Goals (@102greatgoals) January 3, 2016"

"

Kovacic is the first Madrid player sent off with a straight red in Mestalla in a La Liga match since 1990 (Hugo Sánchez)

— MisterChip (English) (@MisterChiping) January 3, 2016"

Despite being down to 10 men, Real retook the lead courtesy of a fine header from Gareth Bale.

"

MAGNIFICANT header GARETH BALE! PERFECTION pic.twitter.com/JZEYh2dRD2

— SRMvines (@SRMvines) January 3, 2016"

But the lead didn't last long, as Valencia went straight back up the other end and scored via Paco Alcacer.

"

ALCACER 2-2 MADNESS FROM VALENCIA https://t.co/FL7DyU2Ljh

— Juan Mata (@JuanMataTouch) January 3, 2016"

A dramatic climax saw Alvaro Negredo and Bale both spurn chances to win it, with the game finishing in a 2-2 draw.

[Twitter]