A Karim Benzema brace gave Real Madrid a 2-1 victory at Athletic Bilbao and lifted them to the top of La Liga on goal difference ahead of Celta Vigo, who thrashed Barcelona 4-1 last night with Iago Aspas hitting a double.

The Frenchman took full advantage of a poor backpass by Mikel San Jose and fired home to put Real ahead after 19 minutes.

Bilbao showed typical fighting spirit and a fine diving header from Sabin Merino ended Real keeper Keylor Navas‘ record unbeaten start to the season after 67 minutes, but they were only level for three minutes.

Benzema, a threat all night to the Athletic rearguard, was quickest to an Isco cross and knocked it in from close range.

Real and Celta now have 13 points after five games while Barca are a point behind.

Primera Liga: Celta Vigo vs Barcelona 4-1; Levante vs Eibar 2-2; R. Vallecano vs S. Gijon 2-1; A. Bilbao vs R. Madrid 1-2; Las Palmas vs Sevilla 2-0; Malaga vs Villarreal 0-1.

Today: 22.05 R. Betis vs Deportivo