Karim Benzema's brace ensured Real Madrid claimed a 2-1 win over Athletic Bilbao to pull eight points clear at the top of La Liga heading into the winter break.
Benzema's quickfire double put Real ahead 2-0 after just seven minutes, bringing his season total to 20 goals.
Oihan Sancet's excellent strike from the edge of the box drew the home team back into the game three minutes later.
In the second half, Nico Williams had the finest chance to equalise for Bilbao, but Thibaut Courtois made a superb stop to deny the goal attempt from the right-back.
Eder Militao made a great tackle on Inaki Williams on the edge of the box as the attacker attempted to break into the penalty area.
Real could have extended their lead in the dying moments when they twice caught Bilbao off guard, but goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala saved both Eden Hazard and Toni Kroos with superb saves.
Carlo Ancelotti's team will go into the Christmas break with a commanding lead at the top of the league, despite having played one more game than nearest opponents Sevilla.
They have only lost twice in 25 matches across all competitions this season, with their most recent defeat coming on October 3 against Espanyol.
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