It is rare when one of Europe’s elite sides does something that no other Real Madrid team in its famous history has done, but that was the case yesterday when Real beat Malaga 2-1 to record their 16th successive win in all competitions. Goals from Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale proved decisive as the European champions continued their phenomenal run of form which has seen them beat everyone they have played since losing 2-1 to Atletico Madrid on September 13th.
The remarkable thing about Real’s impressive run of form, is that it has not giving them any breathing room at the top of La Liga. They are only four points ahead of Altetico, and if Barca beat Valencia today, Barca will only be two points back.
Breaking the record was no easy feat for Carlo Ancelotti’s side as Malaga caused them lots of problems defensively, especially after Isco was sent off in the second half.
Elsewhere, Espanyol came from behind to beat Levante 2-1 on a rain-soaked evening at the Power8 stadium to pick up their first win in six matches. Jose Luis Morales gave the visitors a 12th-minute lead which was quickly cancelled out by Felipe Caicedo, but nine minutes before half-time Sergio Garcia scored a tremendous goal which proved to be a worthy winner. Garcia accelerated beyond three Levante defenders to cut inside and wrap his left foot around the ball, sending it curling into the far corner from 20 yards out.
Athletic Bilbao survived a late scare to beat Getafe 2-1 away from home and bolster their fine recent record to an impressive four wins in six league matches. Mikel San Jose and Benat struck towards the end of either half to earn victory, with Angel Lafita’s injury-time reply coming too late for Getafe.
In the late kick-off, Eibar overcame hosts Celta Vigo 1-0 thanks to Manu Del Moral’s goal on the half hour.