Madrid survive Santander scare

Real Madrid CF edged ahead of Valencia CF in the race for second place in the Primera División with a 3-2 win at struggling Real Racing Club Santander on Thursday.

Penalty converted
Juan Rámon López Caro's men made an undistinguished start against their relegation-threatened opponents but went in at half-time a goal to the good as Brazilian defender Roberto Carlos scored a 34th-minute penalty after fellow countryman Robinho was fouled in the area. Roberto Soldado doubled Madrid's advantage after 60 minutes, sliding in to meet a ball from Raúl González, and within ten minutes it was 3-0 as Guti laid the ball on for Robinho to put a fine strike past Israeli goalkeeper Dudu Awat with the home side's spirits clearly sinking.

Santander rally
Nonetheless, Santander found some reserves of courage, clawing their way back into contention with two goals from second-half substitute Sergio Matabuena. Three minutes of added time set the nerves jangling but Madrid clung on to the three points. The win leaves Madrid one point ahead of third-placed Valencia with two league games remaining. Should they hold on to the runners-up slot they will qualify for the UEFA Champions League group stage with the sides finishing in third and fourth entering the competition in the third qualifying round.