Madrid extend cushion with Levante success

Real Madrid CF moved three points clear at the top of the Liga courtesy of a 3-0 victory at home against Levante UD.

FC Barcelona's surprise loss at Real Valladolid CF on Saturday gifted Madrid the chance to build a significant advantage in the Spanish title race, and they duly took the lead after just 11 minutes, Cristiano Ronaldo heading in an Ángel Di María free-kick. The capital side then doubled their advantage shortly after the break, Marcelo finding the net following a one-two with Ronaldo.

The situation deteriorated for Levante when David Navarro was dismissed for a challenge on the Portugal forward, and a late Nikos Karabelas own goal added to their misery. Carlo Ancelotti's men thus lifted themselves three points ahead of city rivals Club Atlético de Madrid, with Barcelona a further point back.

Elsewhere, fourth-placed Athletic Club came from behind to earn a 1-1 draw at Valencia CF. Aritz Aduriz's second-half penalty cancelled out Paco Alcácer's 23rd-minute opener to earn a point for the Basque club, while Sevilla FC sealed a 3-1 victory at struggling UD Almería, Carlos Bacca, Daniel Carriço and Kevin Gameiro grabbing the goals for the visitors. RCD Espanyol saw off Elche CF by the same scoreline.