PAMPLONA: Defending champions Real Madrid battled hard to seal a comprehensive 2-0 away triumph over Osasuna to cut the gap with La Liga leaders Barcelona to five points.

Young Brazilian forward Vinicius Jr led Madrid’s attack as Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema missed his side’s away fixture against Osasuna as coach Carlo Ancelotti rested the France attacker ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League last-16 first leg at Anfield.

Benzema’s absence did not trouble the visitors much as Vinicius nearly opened the scoring in the 10th minute but Osasuna keeper Sergio Herrera blocked it with a brilliant effort.

The Brazillian then had the ball in the net for Real Madrid in the 52nd minute after a heated first half that witnessed four players booked, but the goal was chalked off when he was found to be offside when the ball was played into him.

Vinicius set up Federico Valverde for the opening goal in the 78th minute before Asensio slammed home a pass from teenager substitute Alvaro Rodriguez in stoppage time to steer Madrid to triumph.

Following a tense victory, the defending champions move five points within table-toppers Barcelona, who play Cadiz on Sunday.

Meanwhile, in other La Liga fixtures, Real Betis edged Valladolid 2-1, while Mallorca thwarted Villarreal 4-2.

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