Earlier, leaders Barcelona squandered the chance to go 11 points clear after blowing a two-goal lead in the space of six minutes in a 2-2 draw at Villarreal. After 30 matches, Barca have 76 points, with Atletico on 67 ahead of Real on 66.
Real Madrid striker Benzema returned after three weeks out with a hamstring injury and opened the scoring in the sixth minute with a brilliant half-volley while Keylor Navas preserved the lead by saving Kevin Gameiro’s penalty before the bereak.
Ronaldo also missed a spot kick in the second half before Gameiro had an effort harshly ruled out for offside.
Ronaldo pounced from close range after 64 minutes to wrap up the points and made a gesture of apology to the home fans, while Bale netted two minutes later and substitute Jese added a late fourth for a scoreline that somewhat flattered the home side.
(Reporting by Richard Martin; Editing by Ken Ferris)
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