5 key takeaways from Real Madrid's 3-0 win over Alavés

Real Madrid extended their lead at the top of La Liga to 13 points with a comfortable 3-0 win over Alavés at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Second half goals from Karim Benzema, Marco Asensio and Vinícius Júnior sealed the victory for Carlo Ancelotti's side, who were without the injured Toni Kroos and Casemiro.

Here are five key takeaways from the match:

1. Benzema continues his goalscoring form

Benzema has now scored 24 goals in La Liga this season, and he is the leading scorer in the competition.

The Frenchman opened the scoring against Alavés with a fine header from a Ferland Mendy cross, and he now has 14 goals in his last 12 appearances for Real Madrid.

2. Asensio impresses in Kroos' absence

With Kroos out injured, Asensio was given a chance to start in midfield alongside Luka Modrić and Federico Valverde.

The Spaniard impressed with his performance, creating several chances for his teammates and scoring a superb goal to make it 2-0.

3. Vinícius Júnior continues to develop

Vinícius Júnior has been one of Real Madrid's most impressive players this season, and he continued his good form with another goal against Alavés.

The Brazilian winger scored the third goal of the game with a clinical finish, and he is now the club's second top scorer in La Liga with 13 goals.

4. Real Madrid's defence remains solid

Real Madrid have kept a clean sheet in their last five La Liga matches, and they have conceded just 20 goals in 27 games this season.

The defence was again solid against Alavés, with Eder Militão and David Alaba particularly impressive.

5. Real Madrid are closing in on the La Liga title

Real Madrid are now 13 points clear at the top of La Liga, and they are closing in on the title.

With just 11 games remaining, Real Madrid need to win just seven of them to secure the championship.