Real clinch 3-1 win at home to Racing

A Zinedine Zidane volley and two late goals from Raul earned Real Madrid an unconvincing 3-1 win at home to Racing Santander on Saturday.

Israeli striker Yossi Benayoun gave Racing a deserved lead in the 16th minute, firing in on the turn after Fernando Moran had created the opening.

Racing passed the ball better than their illustrious opponents and created a string of chances but they failed to extend their lead and paid the price in the 27th minute when Zidane smacked in a Ronaldo cross from the edge of the area.

Racing continued to play the better football but they were hit twice on the break in the last 12 minutes by Raul.

Victory for Real gave them 19 points from eight matches and took them up to second place, behind Valencia on goal difference.

Valencia were looking to move three points clear with a win away to Deportivo Coruna in Saturday's late game. Victory for Deportivo, third with 18 points, would be enough to take them top of the table.