Karim Benzema's third brace in three games lifted Real Madrid 2-0 over Hercules in the Spanish league on Saturday.
Madrid remained perfect in 22 games in all competitions at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium this season and provisionally moved to within four points of league leader Barcelona ahead of its visit to Sevilla on Sunday.
With topscorer Cristiano Ronaldo recovering from a leg injury, Benzema's quality stood out in an otherwise uninspiring performance from his team.
The France striker grabbed the lead for the hosts in the 24th finishing off a nice team buildup, and sealed the win in the 56th with a great individual effort.
"I am (playing) well and I have been lucky to score two goals, but I have to give thanks to all the team," Benzema told TV's Canal Plus. "The league isn't over and we have to work to win the games we have left." he said.