Karim Benzema and Real Madrid shake off rust, nab win to keep pace in LaLiga race

Real Madrid secured a 2-0 win at Real Valladolid as Karim Benzema scored two late goals including a penalty to move them a point clear of Barcelona at the top of LaLiga on Friday.

Ballon d’Or winner Benzema returned to the starting lineup after missing the World Cup for France, having suffered a thigh injury the day before the start of the tournament.

Real were awarded a penalty in the 83rd minute after a handball against Javi Sanchez, with Benzema converting the penalty.

Benzema doubled Madrid’s lead in stoppage time after an assist from substitute Eduardo Camavinga.