Gareth Bale and James Rodriguez both scored a brace and Karim Benzema once as Real Madrid got back into form in spectacular fashion by beating Real Betis 5-0.
Having been scrutinised over the past week for their failure to score in last week’s draw with Sporting Gijon, Los Blancos hit back at their critics with a reminder of what they are capable of.
Bale, who has been on the receiving end of boos from the Santiago Bernabeu crowd in recent months, gave the hosts the perfect start when he headed in James’ cross after barely two minutes. It could have been two just minutes later for Madrid when Benzema’s effort fro saved by Antonio Adan.
The early pressure continued to build as Cristiano Ronaldo and Danilo both went close to extending their side’s league. It came as no surprise then when Madrid went further ahead five minutes before the break. James curled in a magnificent free kick after Ronaldo had been fouled.
Just after the break, Benzema marked his return from a thigh injury with a goal, taking advantage of some poor Betis defending to head home. Three minutes later, James grabbed his second of the night. The visitors failed to clear Toni Kroos’ effort properly and the Colombian finished off with a brilliant bicycle kick.
Pepe Mel’s side could have had a consolation when they were awarded a spot kick after Raphael Varane bundled over Jorge Molina in the box. But their evening of frustration continued as Castro’s effort was saved by Keylor Navas.
Bale rounded off the evening with a goal in the final minute, drilling in an effort off the post from 30 yards. Madrid are up and running – and in style.
