Real Madrid keep pressure on Barcelona with victory over Athletic in Bilbao

Karim Benzema’s first-half strike set Los Blancos on their way

Real Madrid entered into their LaLiga Santander clash with Athletic Club in the knowledge that Barcelona had won earlier in the day.

A potentially tricky away trip to Bilbao wasn’t at all the easy experience that Real Madrid would have preferred after their recent difficult run, however the Spanish champions secured a priceless 2-0 victory.

Karim Benzema‘s fitness has been a source of concern for Los Merengues since the World Cup break, however he broke the deadlock after 24 minutes of play.

It came against the run of play after the hosts had a number of early chances, with Aitor Paredes going close with a header.

Inaki Williams also had a shot at Thibaut Courtois‘ goal, but it fizzed beyond the left post.

Real Madrid had a penalty shout turned down when there was a melee inside the penalty area, however the referee determined that no foul had been committed.

Marco Asensio provided an assist for Benzema‘s opening goal, heading the ball beyond the home defense into the path of the French forward. Benzema collected the ball well and fired the ball into the back of the net.

Real Madrid needed the victory

Keeping pressure on the LaLiga Santander leaders, Barcelona, is vitally important for Real Madrid, especially after slips against Villarreal and Real Betis.

Nacho Fernandez had a chance to double the lead after an hour, but his shot was straight down the middle of the goal at Unai Simon.

Inaki Williams was a constant threat to the visiting defense, and he thought he should have been awarded a penalty in the second half.

He was challenged by a defender, but the official decided that there wasn’t enough contact.

Williams then had the ball in the net after the 78th minute, however the flag went up for offside.