Real Madrid put an end to a turbulent two weeks as Karim Benzema netted twice in a 4-1 win against Real Valladolid on Sunday night.
Real boss Santi Solari came into the match under intense pressure after a horror run of results including two losses to Barcelona and a Champions League flameout against Ajax at the Bernabeu.
And the hosts looked keen to pile on the misery in the opening 20 minutes, but a missed penalty and two goals ruled out by VAR kept Madrid in the match at 0-0 when they could have easily been behind.
However, Valladolid finally found their opener at the fourth time of asking, Anuar tapping home from close range after Sergi Guardiola had squared back to him after a cross from the right flank.
Madrid were back on level terms shortly after when Raphael Varane poked home following a goalmouth scramble to send the teams to the dressing room at 1-1.
Benzema gave Madrid a two-goal cushion before the hour mark, dispatching a spot kick after Alvaro Odriozola was brought down in the penalty area and then heading a corner in to the back post to give Solari’s side some breathing room.
And Luka Modric added further gloss to the scoreline in the closing minutes, scoring from a tight angle on the left after a good run into the penalty area.
The result leaves Real in third place on 51 points, 12 behind leaders Barcelona and five behind second-placed Atletico Madrid.
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