Madrid, April 4 -- Zinedine Zidane's honeymoon period didn't last long in his return as Real Madrid coach.

In his third game back in charge, Real Madrid's familiar struggles returned in a 2-1 loss at Valencia in the Spanish league on Wednesday, reigniting criticism against the Spanish powerhouse.

Madrid had beaten Celta Vigo and Huesca in its first two matches since re-hiring Zidane, who quit nine months ago after leading the club to three straight Champions League titles.

"You have to get through the difficult moments," Zidane said. "It's a loss and we have to accept it. We will try to do better in the next match. Our goal is to finish well and prepare for next season."

Goncalo Guedes and Ezequiel Garay scored in each half for Valenc...