Three more La Liga sides have sealed a winning start to 2023 with key victories for Real Sociedad, Sevilla and Real Betis.
La Real eased up to third in the table, with a second successive victory since their World Cup return, thanks to a routine 2-0 win at Almeria.
Veteran midfielder David Silva marked his 37th birthday with a powerful close range finish before Alexander Sorloth slammed home his third goal in three consecutive starts.
Under pressure Sevilla secured a first league win since October 15, to squeeze themselves out of the relegation zone, thanks to a late 2-1 win at home to Getafe.
Rafa Mir produced a trademark header to win the tie and ease the pressure on head coach Jorge Sampaoli.
Real Betis warmed up for their Spanish Supercopa trip to Saudi Arabia with a 2-1 win at Rayo Vallecano.
A scrappy contest was decided before the break in Vallecas as Luiz Henrique fired home his first ever La Liga goal.
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