Madrid, Feb 24 (IANS): Real Madrid moved three points clear of both Atletico Madrid and FC Barcelona following a dramatic 25th round in the Spanish La Liga.

Real Madrid defeat Elche 3-0 Saturday in the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium thanks to goals from Asier Illaramendi, Gareth Bale and Isco, reports Xinhua.

Barca crashed to a 1-3 defeat away to an impressive Real Sociedad.

The Catalans struggled to compete with a highly motivated and disciplined rival throughout the game.

Atletico Madrid would have moved ahead of Barcelona had they been able to draw away to Osasuna Sunday and remained level pegging with Real Madrid had they won their game.

However, things went wrong from the start for Diego Simeone's side who lost 0-3.

Athletic Club Bilbao remain four points clear of Real Sociedad in fourth place thanks to a 2-0 win away to bottom of the table Betis.

Friday saw Valladolid draw 1-1 at home to Levante in a result which means Valladolid remain in the final relegation spot.