Real Madrid enjoyed a comfortable 3-0 win over Espanyol yesterday.

Carlo Ancelotti's men were beaten by Valencia last Sunday and city rivals Atletico in the Copa Del Rey in midweek, but goals from James Rodriguez, Gareth Bale and Nacho Fernandez ensured they avoided a hat-trick of defeats.

It was, though, a third loss in seven days for Espanyol, who could not capitalise despite the hosts having Fabio Coentrao sent off shortly after half-time.

"The sending-off of Coentrão is an incomprehensible decision. It made the match more difficult for us but the team was in good mental shape and we dealt with it well," said Ancelotti.

"Isco doesn't surprise me. He has been playing very well for a long time. He is playing consistently, which he didn't last year, and that's how he's improved. Kroos is at an excellent level considering that he's a new player. He has slotted into the team with his personality and his characteristics. He's helping the team."