Real Madrid held off a spirited challenge from Valencia to open up a three-point advantage at the top of La Liga tonight.

Rivals Barcelona had momentarily drawn level with Los Blancos at the summit, but goals from Karim Benzema, Sergio Ramos and Cristiano Ronaldo secured the win for Jose Mourinho's side at the Mestalla.

French striker Benzema gave Madrid the lead heading into the break, before defender Ramos doubled that advantage after 72 minutes.

Roberto Soldado halved the deficit three minutes later, only for Ronaldo to score from a tight angle to open up the two-goal margin again.

Valencia struck again seven minutes from time when Soldado turned in Pablo's cross.

The 26-year-old thought he had claimed a hat-trick in stoppage time, but his chipped effort was ruled out for offside.

There was still time for the home side to strike the bar, before Soldado saw his effort blocked on the line by Ramos in the ensuing goalmouth scramble.

Madrid's win marked Mourinho's 50th league match in charge of the club.