Cristiano Ronaldo headed Madrid into an early lead before Racing had defender Domingo Cisma sent off just before half-time for a second yellow card. Karim Benzema hit a brace and Angel Di Maria added another to set the seal on a 20th win in 23 league matches this season for Jose Mourinho's side.

The victory further extended Madrid's advantage over three-time reigning champions Barcelona, who play Valencia at the Nou Camp tomorrow.

Sevilla claimed their first league win of 2012 in new coach Michel's home debut after seeing off Osasuna 2-0 in a hard-fought encounter at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.

Gary Medel opened the scoring in the 16th minute and substitute Piotr Trochowski added a second deep into injury time as Sevilla earned their first league win since December 5.

Getafe and Espanyol shared the spoils after an entertaining 1-1 draw.

The hosts had the better of the opening period but went behind midway through the second half when Alvaro Vasquez broke the offside trap to fire past Miguel Angel Moya.

Getafe replied in the 70th minute as Thievy Bifouma brought down Miku inside the area and the Venezuelan crashed home the resulting penalty.

Espanyol held on for a point despite having Ernesto Galan sent off inside the final 10 minutes .