Madrid hit five to close gap

Real Madrid CF were the day's big winners as they put five past bottom side Real Betis Balompié without reply, while Elche CF moved clear of the drop zone with victory over fellow strugglers Rayo Vallecano de Madrid.

Just three points behind FC Barcelona and Club Atlético de Madrid going into the weekend, Carlo Ancelotti's charges set about putting pressure on the league's pacesetters ahead of their respective games on Sunday, with three first-half goals. Cristiano Ronaldo opening the scoring in the tenth minute before Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema put the Merengues firmly in control.

Ángel Di María and Álvaro Morata were on target in the second period as the capital club hit five or more for the fourth time in the Liga this term. Elsewhere, Elche ended a run of five games without a win thanks to a home victory against Rayo Vallecano. RCD Espanyol captain Sergio García's superb winner, two minutes from time, accounted for RC Celta de Vigo, while there was nothing to separate mid-table Granada CF and CA Osasuna.

On Friday, Málaga CF and Valencia CF played out a goalless draw as both sides struggle to keep pace with the top four.