Villarreal failed to tighten their grip on the fourth Champions League spot in the Primera Division after being held to a goalless draw at home to Real Sociedad.
Athletic Bilbao's draw with Levante earlier in the day gave Marcelino's side the chance to open up an eight point gap over the Basques in fifth but they remain six ahead with three games remaining; now without a win in their last three league games. Real Sociedad are 12th.
Aritz Elustondo nearly gave La Real an early lead when he arrived unmarked at the far post to meet a cross but narrowly headed wide.
Villarreal did not create a clear chance until midway through the first half, when Cedric Bakambu crossed for Roberto Soldado to volley at goal but Geronimo Rulli made an excellent save.
A few minutes later Bruno Soriano rattled the bar from a free-kick, although La Real midfielder David Zurutuza could have put the visitors ahead before the break but was denied by Sergio Asenjo.
The best chance of the game fell to Carlos Vela after Markel Bergara robbed Eric Bailly but the Mexican opted for an attempted chip and Asenjo made the save.