No crisis at Real Madrid: Robben

Dutch international Arjen Robben on Monday denied suggestions of a crisis at Real Madrid after the Spanish side lost its second straight league match over the weekend.

"The defeat was a disappointment but we played really well and I don't think there is a crisis. What we have to do is remain strong and be conscious of what awaits us," the 24-year-old striker told a news conference.

The defending champions saw their lead over nearest rivals FC Barcelona shrink to four points after losing 3-2 to Valencia at home on Sunday.

It was Real Madrid's fifth loss this year in the league. Between August and December the club -- which at one point this season had a nine point lead over FC Barcelona -- had suffered only two defeats in the league.

Villarreal has also closed in on Real Madrid. The club is in third place with 56 points, six fewer than Real Madrid, after beating last-place Levante over the weekend.