Real defeated local rivals Atletico Madrid by 3-2 in the city of Madrid in spain on March 28, 2010. [Xinhua Photo]

In the second half the home team was content to soak up Sevilla 's timid pressure, before Robert Pires added a third in the last minute of the game.

Xerez won a vital three points with a 3-0 home win over second from bottom Valladolid. Victor, Michel and a Mario Bermejo penalty gave Xerez a fighting chance of pulling off a miraculous escape efforts from relegation.

Espanyol and Sporting played out a dull 0-0 draw, while Deportivo la Coruna continued to run out of steam. Miguel Angel Lotina's side wasted a chance to climb back into the top six as two goals from Miku and an own goal from Ze Castro gave Getafe a 3- 1 away win.

Meanwhile Walter Pandiani eased the lingering relegation worry for Osasuna as his side won 1-0 at home to mid-table Almeria.

On Saturday, Malaga draw 1-1 with Tenerife. The point left Tenerife deep in the relegation zone, partly because Zaragoza beat third placed Valencia 3-1.

Diogo, Arizmendi and Jarosik scored for Zaragoza, while Valencia had striker Nikola Zigic sent off at the end of the first half.

Athletic Club Bilbao will play the round at home to Racing Santander on Monday night.