Real Madrid's Karim Benzema fights for the ball with Racing Santander's Francis and goalkeeper Antonio "Tono" during Spanish first division soccer match at El Sardinero stadium in Santander (Reuters)
Jose Mourinho’s side, who are attempting to end Barcelona’s three-year stranglehold on the Spanish title, won their opening two games of the season but suffered a shock 1-0 defeat at Levante on Sunday.
Champions Barca, who demolished Osasuna 8-0 on Saturday, can go top with a win at early pacesetters Valencia in Wednesday’s late kickoff (2000 GMT), at least until surprise package Real Betis play at home to Real Zaragoza on Thursday.
Promoted Betis have won three out of three games this term and are level on nine points with Valencia, two ahead of Barca.
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