Video: Arda Guler scores stunning free-kick before Kylian Mbappe doubles lead for Real Madrid against Elche | OneFootball

Real Madrid are on course to go level with Barcelona at the top of La Liga, having scored twice in the first half against Elche at the Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero.

It’s been a testing start to the match for Jose Mourinho’s side, with Elche providing a threat in attack. However, the best chances have fallen Real Madrid’s way, with Vinicius Junior and Dean Huijsen both missing big opportunities to find the back of the net.

Fortunately, Arda Guler has broken the deadlock for Real Madrid. His free-kick came off the post, and after rolling across the goal-line, it trickled into the net, much to the delight of the away contingent inside the Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero.

Mbappe nets second shortly after

Real Madrid did not have to wait much longer to double their lead. Yan Diomande collected the ball on the right, and he crossed for Kylian Mbappe to tap home – the number 10 took a strong blow from Elche goalkeeper Matias Dituro, but fortunately, he was able to continue after receiving treatment from the medical staff.

It’s hardly a surprise that Real Madrid’s breakthrough came from Guler, who has been their best player in the opening stages. The goal may end up going down as a Dituro own goal as it did nick off the elbow of the Elche goalkeeper, but nevertheless, it came from him, and a typical Mbappe finish means the visitors are in a very good position going into the half time interval.

Mourinho will be very relieved that two quick goals have given his side complete control. Elche have been dangerous at times, but with this cushion, Real Madrid can feel comfortable, although they will still need to be alert if they are to ensure that another three points are added to their total.