LaLiga: Valverde stars again as Real Madrid thump Elche 4-1

Real Madrid continued their La Liga title charge with a routine 4-1 win over Elche at the Santiago Bernabeu, keeping the pressure on leaders Barcelona.

The win sets them up perfectly ahead of a crucial UEFA Champions League last-16 clash with Manchester City.

Rudiger and Valverde break deadlock

The hosts struggled early to break down a strong Elche defence, frustrating the Bernabeu crowd. The deadlock was finally broken in the 39th minute when Antonio Rudiger capitalised on a rebound from Elche goalkeeper Matias Dituro, slamming a half-volley into the net.

Five minutes later, Fede Valverde doubled Real’s lead. Picking up the ball from his own half, Valverde drove forward, exchanged passes with Fran Garcia, and curled a shot into the top corner.

The goal marked his fifth in eight days, underlining a rich scoring run for the Uruguayan midfielder.

Second half seals the win

Real Madrid’s dominance continued after the break. Dean Huijsen headed home just past the hour mark to make it 3-0, although Elche briefly reduced the deficit when substitute Manuel Angel turned the ball into his own net while attempting to cut back a cross.

The hosts restored their three-goal cushion in spectacular fashion as Arda Guler scored from his own half, sealing a 4-1 victory.

The win allows Real Madrid to preserve energy ahead of their Champions League tie against Manchester City, while moving to within a single point of Barcelona at the top of La Liga.