LaLiga: Real Madrid move top with win over Sociedad

Real Madrid knocked Barcelona off the top of LaLiga by beating Real Sociedad 2-1 on Sunday.

Captain Sergio Ramos rolled in another penalty before being forced off due to injury, while Karim Benzema continued his excellent form by adding a second at Anoeta.

Though Mikel Merino gave Real Sociedad hope with seven minutes left, Madrid held on to go above Barca on head-to-head.

Real Sociedad were contenders for the top four before the three-month suspension but a draw and two defeats since the restart leaves them sixth, five points adrift.

Ramos scored his 20th consecutive spot-kick in the 50th minute to become LaLiga’s highest ever scoring defender on 68 goals, overtaking Ronald Koeman on the all-time list.

“He’s the best defender in the world,” said Zinedine Zidane. “What he has been doing and achieving for so many years is incredible.”

But Ramos limped off 10 minutes later with what looked like a knee injury, which will be a huge concern for Madrid if the problem proves serious. He was seen sitting with an ice-pack on his left knee in the stands.

Madrid also benefited from two tight decisions after Adnan Januzaj drove in an equaliser for Real Sociedad, only to have it ruled out before Benzema doubled the lead and was adjudged not to have controlled with his arm.