Madrid [Spain], Sept. 19 : Real Madrid produced yet another imperious performance by equalling a La Liga record set by rivals Barcelona with a scrappy 2-0 win over Espanyol here at RCDE Stadium on Monday.

It was the 16th straight league victory for Madrid, going back to last season, thus matching Pep Guardiola's Barcelona record in 2010-11 season.

Midfielder James Rodriguez, who was linked with a move away from Zinedine Zidane's side, smashed his maiden goal for Madrid in five months by converting a penalty kick in the first-half injury time.

It was in the 71st minute of the match when Karim Benzema sealed second goal for Madrid with a close-range finish.

The fourth consecutive La Liga win this season came despite the absence of star striker Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, who were rested by coach Zidane.

With the win, Madrid have now climbed three points clear of Barcelona at the top of the La Liga table.

Madrid will now lock horns with Villarreal at Santiago Bernabeu on September 21. (ANI)