Real power their way into last 16 with 3-1 win over Lazio

Real Madrid powered their way into the knockout stage of the Champions League as winners of Group C with a confident 3-1 victory over Lazio at the Bernabeu on Tuesday.

Quick-fire goals from Julio Baptista and Raul put Real two goals up with just 15 minutes on the clock and Robinho added a third before halftime to ensured the nine-times European champions entered the last 16 for the 11th season in a row.

Baptista put Real in front when he curled a shot low past keeper Marco Ballotta from the edge of the area, Raul added a second two minutes later and Robinho made it 3-0 just before the break.

Real's victory was never in danger but Lazio striker Goran Pandev grabbed a consolation 10 minutes from time and fellow striker Tommaso Rocchi had a chance to pull another one back at the death but fluffed a last-gasp penalty.