Ronaldo shines versus Gijon

Another bright performances from Cristiano Ronaldo saw the all whites move further ahead at the top of the table, even after an early scare.

Real Madrid had many chances on goal in the first half. Higuain had several, first trying to head in a pass from Marcelo, then missing his mark with a crossed shot with his right foot following a 30-metre assist. Goalkeeper Juan Pablo was inspired and thwarted a great shot by Ronaldo.

Sporting scored six minutes into the second half and Real Madrid were forced to make a comeback.

Following a series of set pieces, Van der Vaart scored an equaliser taking advantage of the clearance Juan Pablo had been forced to make from a shot by Ronaldo.

Four minutes later, Ronaldo tried to head in the ball following a corner kick by Granero. The ball failed to go in, but Xabi Alonso finished the play off successfully, also with a header.

Higuain sealed the victory with a tight and brilliant shot with his left foot.