Real Madrid left it late to overcome battling Sporting Gijon yesterday.

Real Madrid scored twice in the final 15 minutes as they came from behind to beat Sporting Gijon 3-1.

The visitors had gone into a shock lead after half an hour when Miguel de Las Cuevas scored from the penalty spot after Sergio Ramos had ended a wonderful run by Oscar Trejo by handling inside the area.

Gonzalo Higuain levelled matters seven minutes later with a free header at the back post and Cristiano Ronaldo finally made all Real's pressure in the second half count 15 minutes from time when he powered home Angel di Maria's cross.

Roberto Canella was then sent off for the visitors for a second bookable offence and the hosts wrapped up all three points when Mesut Ozil's exquisite through-ball was slotted home by Karim Benzema to ensure Real keep their lead at the top of the table.