Real Madrid thumped Elche 3-0 to go top of the table in Spain.
Gareth Bale added to Asier Illaramendi's first-half opener with a stunning strike on 71 minutes, and then substitute Isco hit a third with 10 minutes remaining.
Although Madrid never hit top gear, they pulled off their 10th home win of the season to keep the pressure on title rivals Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.
Real coach Carlo Ancelotti said: "I am satisfied because we have shown solidarity, we didn't give anything away at the back. The overall play could have been better, but at this stage of the season we have to be clinical, and that's how we played. I am very happy."
