The visitors were largely uninspiring yet still created enough chances to have won comfortably with Gonzalo Higuain and Cristiano Ronaldo uncharacteristically wasteful in front of goal.

And with Mallorca goalkeeper Dudu Aouate turning in a wonderful display, there was no way through for Madrid's star-studded team.

David Villa marked his league debut for Barcelona with a goal as Pep Guardiola's side began the defence of their title with a comfortable 3-0 win at Racing Santander.

Lionel Messi opened the scoring with a fine goal after just three minutes and Andres Iniesta added an even better second later in the half as the Spanish champions quickly took control at El Sardinero.

Racing striker Mohamed Tchite saw his penalty saved by Barca keeper Victor Valdes moments later and Villa had an effort ruled out for offside before the break.

But the Spain striker struck again after 62 minutes with a pinpoint header to score his first goal in Barca colours and ensure an ideal start to the league campaign for the Catalans.

Dani Osvaldo struck a brace and Jesus Datolo scored on his debut as Espanyol kicked off the season with a 3-1 win at home to Getafe.

Osvaldo struck either side of half-time to put the Barcelona side in control of the match and although an Ernesto Galan own-goal gave Getafe hope of salvaging a point, Datolo sealed the win for Espanyol with the clincher deep into added time.

Real Sociedad began life back in the Primera Division with a win over Villarreal thanks to Xabi Prieto's second-half goal.

The Basque side were returning to the top flight following three years in the Second Division and fans' idol Prieto ensured the club rejoined the big time with a bang.

Osasuna and Almeria started their respective Primera Division campaigns with a point each after playing out a goalless draw at the Reyno de Navarra.

In a game of few clear-cut chances, Almeria finished up with 10 men following the late dismissal of centre-back Carlos Garcia, but there was not enough time for Osasuna to take advantage.

Deportivo La Coruna and Real Zaragoza played out a goalless draw at the Riazor to share the spoils.