Raphael Varane had a hand in two goals as Real Madrid won 3-0 at neighbours Getafe on their return to LaLiga action after the winter break.
The France defender provided the aerial challenge which led to David Soria’s own goal and then headed in the second shortly after half-time.
Thibaut Courtois was forced to make a string of fine saves for Madrid before the visitors added a late third from Luka Modric .
The win extended Madrid’s unbeaten streak to 10 league matches and turned the heat up on title rivals Barcelona, who face a derby against Espanyol later on Saturday.
Madrid, without the suspended Sergio Ramos, started on the front foot with Karim Benzema having a header saved, but they were soon relying on Courtois to keep them level.
The goalkeeper produced a stunning save to parry out
Mauro Arambarri ‘s explosive volley from the edge of the area in the 24th minute.
Ten minutes later, and following a brief delay due to a failure with the referee’s equipment, Madrid were ahead.
Goalkeeper Soria, under pressure from Varane, failed to punch Ferland Mendy ‘s cross clear as the ball ricochet off his arm and into the empty net.
