Benzema scores twice as Real Madrid defeats Valladolid to take first place in the La Liga standings.

Real Madrid topped Spain’s La Liga standings thanks to Karim Benzema’s two goals.
Benzema, the winner of the Ballon d’Or, was chosen to represent France at the World Cup in Qatar, but he was forced to withdraw before the tournament’s opening match due to a thigh injury sustained in training.

After the competition, in which France finished second to Argentina, he then declared his retirement from playing for the national team of France.

He scored his first goals since October 19 when Real Madrid overcame Elche on Friday. He had to stay patient, though, as Javi Sanchez was penalized for handball and given a penalty that resulted in his first goal in the 83rd minute.

Six minutes later, after a ball from fellow Frenchman Eduardo Camavinga, Benzema added his second of the game, helped by Valladolid’s Sergio Leon receiving a red card.

The win gave Madrid a one-point advantage over Barcelona at the top, but Barcelona can retake the lead on Saturday when they play local rivals Espanyol.