For the second time in a week, Karim Benzema scored in the final minutes as Real Madrid gained ground on Atlético Madrid in the Spanish league title race.
Benzema’s late brace earned Madrid a 2-1 win over Elche on Saturday, cutting into Atlético’s lead at the top after it was held 0-0 at 10-man Getafe.
Elche defender Dani Calvo headed the visitors in front in the 61st minute at Alfredo Di Stéfano Stadium.
But Benzema responded with a 73rd-minute equalizer and added an exquisite half-volley from the side of the area for the injury-time winner.
“It wasn’t an easy game against a team that was well organized. We know that we have to make an extra effort to get to the top of the table,” Benzema said after taking his team-high tally to 20 goals in all competitions this season.
Coach Zinedine Zidane had left midfielders Luka Modric and Toni Kroos on the bench to rest them for Madrid’s upcoming Champions League match against Atalanta.
But after Calvo’s opener, the two playmakers went on and had a quick impact. Modric took a pass from Kroos before he floated a cross to the far post for Benzema to jump over his marker and nod the ball home.
Elche retreated into its area as Madrid pressed for a second goal. Casemiro had already threatened twice before Benzema exchanged passes with substitute Rodrygo and blasted a left-footed shot from the left side of the area beyond the reach of goalkeeper Edgar Badía.
Both Sergio Ramos and Eden Hazard played their first matches after being sidelined for several weeks with leg injuries. Ramos played an hour as a starter. Hazard played the final quarter of an hour.
Madrid will host Atalanta on Tuesday in the round of 16 of the Champions League after winning the away leg 1-0.
