Real Madrid comes from behind late to win against Alaves

A stoppage-time header by fullback Lucas Vazquez gave 10-man Real Madrid a 1-0 win against lowly Alaves in La Liga Saturday, while defender Nacho was sent off for a sliding tackle. The victory moved Real Madrid to the top of the table on goal difference, level on 45 points with Girona, who were beaten to a 1-1 draw at Real Betis earlier today.

Real's old rivals Barcelona remain in third place with 38 points, three points ahead of Atletico Madrid, who have a game in hand and visit Sevilla on Saturday. A toothless Real Madrid failed to create almost any chances as they appeared to be heading for a dull goalless draw against a tenacious Alaves, who are struggling in 17th place in the LaLiga standings but are difficult to beat when roared on by their fans at the Mendizorroza stadium, having earned 13 of their 16 points at home. However, one minute into additional time, Toni Kroos and Vazquez handed Real all three points.