Real Madrid beats Getafe, closes gap on Atletico

Real Madrid’s French duo Karim Benzema and Ferland Mendy struck in the second half as the Spanish champions beat Getafe 2-0 at home, and closed the gap on La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid to five points.

Real were missing nine first-team players through injury or suspension, which led Coach Zinedane Zidane to field a 3-4-3 formation. He also gave 20-year-old midfielder Marvin Park his first start for the club,

Benzema came closest to scoring in the first half, guiding a header on to the Getafe crossbar from a corner kick. Luka Modric also drew a good save from David Soria with a low drive from outside the box. however, the score remains 0-0 at halftime.

Madrid’s first goal came on the hour and it was Vinicius Jr. providing the assist for Benzema.

Benzema jumped to connect with a curling cross from Vinicius Jr. and headed Madrid in front past goalkeeper David Soria, giving the hosts a deserved lead after dominating the first half against a Getafe side who had only one shot on goal all game.

Madrid continued to dominate and create chances, and six minutes later their lead was doubled.

French left-back Ferland Mendy started the move with a bursting run through midfield, before sliding in to tap in a cross from Marcelo.

The victory took Zinedine Zidane’s side into second in the standings and left them five points below Atletico, who drew 2-2 with Celta Vigo on Monday  but have two games in hand.

“We can’t worry about the other teams we just have to keep on this run,” said Real Madrid coach Zidane said.

“I don’t believe that Madrid fans have given up on us winning the league.  We know there will be difficulties but there is a long way to go and they expect us to keep fighting.”