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Real Madrid 3 - Deportivo Alaves 0: Benzema, Isco and Nacho on target but Ronaldo subdued
KARIM BENZEMA, Isco and Nacho Fernandez scored as Real Madrid extended their lead at the top of La Liga to five points.
Karim Benzema scored as Real Madrid battled past Alaves
Benzema has been criticised for his lack of clincality in front of goal this season.
But Madrid's No 9 scored when it counted to ensure his side continue their remarkable campaign.
Real are aiming to win a first La Liga title in 2012 with Benzema, a player signed from Lyon in 2009, aiming to win just a second of his career.
And he boosted their chances of glory by scoring in the 31st minute.
The 29-year-old coverted Madrid's first true opening after good work from right-back Dani Carvajal.
Isco celebrates scoring for Real Madrid
Real grabbed a third late on courtesy of defender Nacho.
Gareth Bale's thunderous free-kick smacked against the crossbar and Nacho was on hand to head in the rebound.
The win means Madrid are now five points clear at the summit.
But Barcelona could trim their lead back to two when they face Granada tonight (7.45pm).