体坛英语新闻：Real Madrid back on top in Spain ahead of next week's Classico

MADRID, April 4 (Xinhua) -- Real Madrid won its 12th consecutive BBVA Primera Liga game to move back to the top of the league table on Sunday evening.

A Cristiano Ronaldo penalty and a second half goal from Gonzalo Higuain, his 24th of the season, were enough to assure an easy 2-0 win away to a dreadful Racing Santander that failed to have a single shot on target all game.

The win was a good response to FC Barcelona, who had put the pressure on Madrid on Saturday night and Real Madrid will receive Barca as leaders in next weekend's game between the two teams.

With one eye on Tuesday's Champions League quarterfinal against Arsenal, Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola rested key players against Athletic Bilbao. His brave team selection was rewarded when youngsters Bojan Krkic and Jeffren scored three of his side's goals in a 4-1 win.

Jeffren opened the scoring, while Bojan netted on either side of half time, before Leo Messi added the fourth. Athletic created several good chances and retrieved some honor after Markel Susaeta scored a consolation goal.

Saturday's other matches saw Sevilla return to form to give new coach Antonio Alvarez the three points on his home debut.