Madrid up to 2nd with Benzema brace in 3-1 win at Celta

<p>BARCELONA, Spain &mdash; Karim Benzema netted twice to extend his scoring streak as Real Madrid moved second in the Spanish league with a 3-1 win over Celta Vigo on Saturday.</p>
<p>Toni Kroos set up Benzema for both his early goals at Balaídos Stadium.</p>
<p>Kroos slipped a short pass through two defenders to leave Benzema alone to beat goalkeeper Iván Villar in the 20th. The Germany midfielder gave his French striker a second opportunity on the half-hour mark when he stole the ball from Renato Tapia near Celta’s goal.</p>
<p>Celta improved after its shaky start. Striker Santi Mina pulled one back with a header five minutes before halftime. Iago Aspas drew a save from Thibaut Courtois in the 62nd and the striker’s free kick hit the post with eight minutes to play. </p>
<p>Benzema crossed for Marco Asensio to complete the win on the last kick of the match. </p>
<p>Benzema has scored eight goals in a six-match scoring run over all competitions. He scored in Madrid’s 3-1 win over Atalanta on Tuesday to help lead Madrid into the Champions League quarterfinals. He got another brace last weekend to lead a 2-1 comeback victory over Elche. </p>
<p>Madrid moved one point above Barcelona before it plays at Real Sociedad on Sunday.</p>
<p>Leader Atlético Madrid is three points ahead of Madrid before hosting Alavés on Sunday. </p>
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