Real lost ground in their title challenge as they freeze at 56 points, as Barca reached 51 points to close the gap on the table-toppers to five points.

The Spanish champions failed to preserve their early lead after Dutch youngster Royston Drenthe scored in the 6th minute, only for relegation battlers Betis to come back superbly before half-time.

Two quickfire goals from Brazilian playmaker Edu and Chilean winger Mark Gonzalez in the 33rd and 36th minutes sealed a famous victory for the home side over the holders.

At Romareda, Barcelona needed an 84th minute penalty from Ronaldinho to secure a vital away win over a resilient Zaragoza side.

Thierry Henry's first half strike was cancelled out by Ricardo Oliveira in the 56th minute, but Ronaldinho, who was introduced as a late substitute, won the game for the Catalans.