Last update on. From the section European Football
Karim Benzema has been directly involved with 22 goals in 15 matches this season for Real Madrid (14 goals, eight assists).
Real Madrid won hard-fought victory at the Bernabeu over Rayo Vallecano to return to the top of La Liga.
After 14 minutes, Toni Kroos scored the winner for the hosts with a side-footed finish to Vinicius Junior’s pass.
Karim Benzema increased the lead before half-time by scoring his 10th league goal from David Alaba’s cross.
With 13 minutes remaining, substitute Radamel Falcao headed in but Rayo couldn't find an equaliser. Rayo remained sixth.
Victory put Carlo Ancelotti's side on two points ahead of Real Sociedad. However, Sevilla will be joining them on 27 points if Real Betis defeats Sevilla on Sunday (20:00 GMT).
Benzema had many chances to make the hosts' win, Vinicius couldn't finish after a great run, and Marco Asensio was also denied.
They almost got a harsher sentence for their indecency, but Kroos made a goal-line clearance. Thibaut Courtois then tipped Unai Lopez's follow-up shot over the crossbar.
