Agence France-Presse
Madrid, March 3: Cristiano Ronaldo converted a first half penalty to lead Real Madrid to a 3-1 win at last-place Levante in the La Liga, keeping his team third in the standings.
Ronaldo scored from the spot in the 34th minute for his 23rd league goal of the season. An own goal by Levante goalkeeper Diego Marino added to the lead in the 38th and Isco Alarcon sealed the victory in second half injury time. Brazilian striker Deyverson scored Levante’s goal in the 39th minute. The victory helped Madrid rebound from a disappointing home loss to rivals Atletico Madrid last week.
Real have 57 points with 11 games to go, four points behind second place Atletico and nine less than leaders Barcelona.
It was Madrid’s first victory in three games, and the sixth since coach Zinedine Zidane took over the squad nine rounds ago. “We want commitment,” Zidane said. “We need all players giving everything that they have. I’m happy with what I saw today (Wednesday).”
Missing several regular starters including Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema, Sergio Ramos and Marcelo, the visitors struggled to impose their supremacy on the game. They controlled possession at the Ciutat de Valencia Stadium, but the hosts had chances to earn at least a draw.
Ronaldo had missed a penalty against Malaga two rounds ago, but struck the net with a firm low shot after youngster Lucas Vazquez was fouled inside the area. Ronaldo almost nearly had a second goal in the 66th minute, but his close-range shot struck the post.
Meanwhile in another match played in the night, Gary Neville’s Valencia rallied to pick up a 2-1 win at Malaga.