MADRID, March 18 (Xinhua) -- Real Madrid will go into the international break as league leaders in Spain after a disciplined and hard-working defensive display coupled with goals from Karim Benzema and Casemiro gave them a narrow 2-1 win away to Athletic Club Bilbao on Saturday.
Real Madrid were able to welcome Gareth Bale back after suspension, and Casemiro was back after being rested against Betis, while Aritz Aduriz had shaken off physical problems to make his first start in seven games for the home side.
The game got off to a high-paced start with Athletic taking the game to their rivals and Raul Garcia drawing a full length save from Keylor Navas in the Madrid goal.
The home side was enjoying the lion's share of possession, but had a warning when Ronaldo had a goal ruled out for offside.
Real Madrid took the lead in the 24th minute when Benzema produced a smart finish following a fast move involving Casemiro and Ronaldo and could have doubled it when Bale's shot was parried by Athletic keeper Kepa.
Tempers got frayed as the half progressed with Casemiro and Aritz Aduriz both booked after a squaring up to each other in the middle of the park.
The second half began with Aduriz's header being hacked clear by Ramos, before Athletic enjoyed a 15 minute spell of possession without creating any chances as Madrid kept their shape.
Navas had to get down well on 62 minutes to deny Inaki Williams after a nice move involving Oscar de Marcos.
The home side was level in the 65th minute as Aduriz nodded home from close range after being teed up by Raul Garcia following a Williams cross.
Athletic's joy lasted less than 3 minutes before Casemiro put Madrid back in front with a simple finish after Ronaldo had got a flick on from a corner for what, despite all of Athletic's efforts, was the decisive goal of the game.