Real Madrid shot ahead to the top of the La Liga table after beating Celta Vigo 3-1 on Saturday.
Prior to the game, Real Madrid, Celta Vigo and Barcelona had been tied on 18 points in 8 games, with Real and Celta both going unbeaten.
Portugal international and FIFA World Player of the Year, Cristiano Ronaldo, shot the Merengues into the lead in the 8th minute after a Lucas Vasquez initial effort found its way into his path and the 30-year-old smashed home for his 12th goal in as many matches.
Danilo found no trouble in doubling the home side’s woes after grabbing a cool pass from Jese Rodriguez to net his first for the club this season.
Nolito confirmed his high rating by critics for his performance this season by netting a screamer in the 61st minute, his seventh this season, having initially been denied by Real Madrid defender Marcelo whose alertness saved the team’s blushes.
Goalkeeper Keylor Navas was a big inspiration at the back for the Galacticos as he saved several clear-cut attempts from the Celta attack, despite Cabral having been sent off for Celta after getting a second yellow in the 58th minute.
Marcelo gave Madrid an unassailable 3-1 lead on the 90th-minute mark, slotting a sitter into the near-corner.
Celta Vigo failed to re-enact the form that saw them demolish Barcelona 4-1 in September, meaning that they are rooted to 18 points, 3 behind Real Madrid and level with Barcelona who welcome Eibar on Sunday.