An unconvincing Real Madrid needed a Cristiano Ronaldo penalty deep into stoppage time to snatch a 2-1 win at promoted Elche on Wednesday that kept them hard on the heels of La Liga leaders Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.
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The Portugal forward smashed home a free kick to put Real ahead in the 51st minute against a plucky Elche side before substitute Richmond Boakye looked to have secured a point when he headed past Diego Lopez in the 91st minute.
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There was more drama to come, however, as Real won a corner and the referee pointed to the penalty spot after Pepe tangled with midfielder Carlos Sanchez in the area.
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As the match ticked into its 94th minute, Ronaldo calmly struck the ball into the corner for his sixth goal in six matches this term.
He is just their rescuer in times of trouble so Real Madrid is very fortunate to have a player like him in their squad!