Real Madrid thumped Valencia 5-0 thanks to a superb first-half performance.

Real took out their pent-up Primera Division frustrations on sorry Valencia with a stunning first-half display en route to a comprehensive 5-0 victory at the Mestalla.

Gonzalo Higuain opened the scoring early on and then Cristiano Ronaldo and Angel Di Maria helped themselves to braces during a devastating 11-minute spell just before half-time as Madrid, who beat the same opponents in the Copa del Rey in midweek, ran amok.

Valencia battled back after the break and had a number of chances to pull a goal back but Madrid's defence, with Iker Casillas selected ahead of Antonio Adan in goal, held firm to complete a great night for Jose Mourinho's men, who moved back to within 15 points of leaders Barcelona.