Real Madrid bounced back from their weekend derby defeat to Atletico by beating Las Palmas 2-0 at the Bernabeuon Wednesday night.
Brahim Diaz and Joselu struck either side of half-time to get Carlo Ancelotti’s side back to winning ways and set up an intriguing top-of-the-table clash with Girona on Saturday.
Ancelotti rested Jude Bellingham and Luka Modric in preparation for that match.
Just three days after their derby defeat to Atletico Madrid, Real knew they could go top of the league if they beat Las Palmas and Girona dropped points at Villarreal.
Initially, Las Palmas goalkeeper Alvaro Valles thwarted Real, making seven saves and denying a frustrated Joselu on several occasions.
But it was 18th time a charm for Real, who scored with the last kick of the first half as Diaz’s effort found the top corner.
Joselu would then get the goal he deserved after the break, glancing in a header just moments before he was brought off for the returning Vinicius Jr.
As it was, Girona won 2-1 at Villarreal, meaning this year’s surprise package so far have overtaken Barcelona to top the table, with Real up to second.
And for added intrigue, Girona host Real next on Saturday.
Carlo Ancelotti was able to leave Jude Bellingham and Luka Modric on the bench against Las Palmas in preparation for that unlikely top-of-the-table showdown. —Eurosport
