Benzema scored two out of three penalties as Real Madrid defeat Celta

A 2-1 win at Balaidos will calm any nerves in La Liga's title race, allowing Madrid to draw a line under their thrashing at the hands of a resurgent Barcelona before the international break.

Thibaut Courtois was also called upon again to make some excellent saves to deny Celta at least a draw.

Celta had reason to feel at least one of the spot-kicks given by referee Pablo Gonzalez was harsh, with Rodrygo and then Ferland Mendy both going down easily under the lighest of challenges.

Benzema missed the second against Celta's Matias Dituro but scored the first and third, the Frenchman marking his return from injury with an important brace that takes his goal tally for the season to 39.