Real Madrid managed to put behind their disappointing draw against Paris St Germain to claim a win against Celta de Vigo on Saturday.

This victory was paramount given that Barcelona won their game in hand to accumulate 21 points from the opening nine matches. As a result, they are level with Real who lead the table by virtue of better head-to-head record. Real were in danger of dropping more points – after the recent 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid – since they came into the game without a number of key players like Gareth Bale missing due to injury.

However, they were largely helped by the sending-off just a few minutes into the second half. Cabral was sent in for an early shower after his second yellow card in the 57th minute. Madrid were already 2-0 up in the game and seemingly destined for three points. Nolito’s late goal put some scare into the minds of Madrid, but they were unable to come away with all the points thanks to a goal from Marcelo in injury time. Benitez was extremely satisfied having achieved this results in difficult circumstances. Since the Spanish league is extremely difficult, Madrid will have to follow up with a win from a home game against Las Palmas next week.

"These games, with missing players, allowed us to use the whole squad.To keep winning is a very positive sign, not just for the results, but for the future.We created many chances, but suffered for not getting a third goal when we needed to. We must be positive as that is a great result after tough game on Wednesday against PSG. The team showed character and quality. We held on, took the three points in the end against very good team at a very difficult place to go," said Benitez.