Ronaldo scores hat-trick in Madrid’s win

Deyverson gave Alaves an early lead but then gave a penalty away which was converted by the Portugal forward.

Ronaldo added a second before the break with a deflected shot but had a second spot-kick saved by Alaves goalkeeper Fernando Pacheco 10 minutes from time.

Alvaro Morata scored Real’s third before Ronaldo completed his treble.

Zinedine Zidane’s side are three points clear of Sevilla, who were held to a 1-1 draw by Sporting Gijon earlier in the day.

Alaves were unbeaten at home in La Liga before this match, but once again Ronaldo’s impact on the game was decisive.

The 31-year-old confidently sent Pacheco the wrong away from the penalty spot to equalise after Brazilian forward Deyverson was deemed to have handled, then his long-range effort sailed into the top corner.

Pacheco guessed correctly to save Ronaldo’s second penalty, but Real’s record goalscorer would not be denied his hat-trick and fired home after he exchanged passes with Marcelo inside the area.