Ronaldo continues to sizzle as Real win

 Real Madrid followed up Tuesday's Champions League success at Manchester United by climbing above beaten city rivals Atletico into second in La Liga when Cristiano Ronaldo struck twice in a 2-1 win at second-bottom Celta Vigo on Sunday.

Ronaldo netted the goal that sent Real through to the last eight of Europe's elite club competition at the expense of his former club and his latest double took his league tally for the season to 26, 14 behind top scorer Lionel Messi of Barcelona.

The victory was far from convincing but put champions Real a point clear of Atletico on 58 points with 11 games left, 13 behind leaders Barca who won 2-0 at basement side Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday.

Atletico had won all 13 home matches this season but went down 0-1 to Real Sociedad in the late kickoff.

Valencia missed a chance to claim fourth spot when they were beaten 1-0 at Athletic Bilbao earlier on Sunday. Bilbao forward Iker Muniain clipped home a loose ball in the 80th minute to put the home side ahead at a vibrant San Mames stadium.

Valencia substitute Roberto Soldado had a chance to level minutes later but somehow scooped the ball over the bar with the goal at his mercy.

Levante, through to the last 16 of the Europa League, are also bidding for a return to continental competition next season but were held to a 0-0 draw at home to Getafe. Valencia-based Levante are 10th on 36 points, three behind Madrid side Getafe.