Real Madrid go four clear at the summit after Sevilla win, but at a cost

Real Madrid moved four points clear at the top of La Liga as goals from James Rodriguez and Jese handed them a 2-1 win over Sevilla on Wednesday.

However, the European champions could be without Sergio Ramos and Rodriguez for Saturday’s crucial Madrid derby away to La Liga champions Atletico as they both limped off in the first-half.

Marcelo will definitely miss out at the Vicente Calderon after picking up his fifth booking of the season in the second-half.

Substitute Iago Aspas pulled a goal back for Sevilla late on, but defeat means their lead over Valencia in fourth remains at just a point.

Madrid were still missing the suspended Cristiano Ronaldo as he completed a two-game ban and Sevilla will rue not taking a number of chances to take advantage in the first period.

Vitolo shot straight at Iker Casillas when clean through as Madrid nearly conceded inside two minutes for the fourth time in five games.

Ramos then left the field holding his left hamstring to be replaced by Nacho.

The hosts went in front with their first serious attack as Rodriguez timed his run to perfection to head Marcelo’s cross past the helpless Beto.