Cristiano Ronaldo struck twice on his return from suspension as Real Madrid flourished late in the game to thrash Xerez 3-0.
Real dominated virtually throughout on a stodgy pitch, but had to be patient as Xerez held out for more than an hour.
Alvaro Arbeloa finally put Madrid in front after 64 minutes, before Ronaldo's quick brace finished off the spirited Andalusians.
They will now hope their city rivals Atletico can do them a favour tomorrow night against a Barca side missing a host of defenders through injury and suspension.
Valencia came from behind to secure a point at Sporting Gijon in a 1-1 draw, but were left frustrated by the plucky Asturians.
Sporting put their recent woes behind them as they took a fifth-minute lead through Diego Castro.
And Valencia, despite incessant pressure which saw them twice rattle the woodwork, were unable to find a way through until Juan Mata's leveller 14 minutes from time.
Juan Carlos Garrido celebrated a 2-1 victory in his first home match in charge of Villarreal amid late drama at El Madrigal.
Garrido oversaw a 1-0 defeat at Real Mallorca last week but it was a different story against Athletic Bilbao tonight thanks to first-half goals from Joan Capdevila and Nilmar.
Igor Gabilondo had drawn Athletic level but the goals were only half the story as Andoni Iraola missed a late penalty for the visitors before three players and one coach saw red.
Javi Martinez and Diego Godin both went after a clash and, in the ensuing chaos, both benches got involved and Athletic coach Joaquin Caparros was also sent to the stands.
Frustration then got the better of Pablo Orbaiz, who was dismissed after reacting with fury to what he perceived was an over-reaction to his challenge by Ariel Ibagaza.
Match Reports
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