Real Madrid star striker Cristiano Ronaldo scored thrice to help his side thrash Espanyol 6-0 in a ruthless attacking display in La Liga clash at Santiago Bernabeu.
Forward Karim Benzema opened his side account in the 7th minute of the match to put them in lead before Ronaldo smashed a penalty just five minutes later, the Guardian reported.
Midfielder James Rodriguez struck the third goal in the 16th minute of the match followed by Ronaldo's second goal as Real took a 4-0 lead before the half-time.
In the 82nd minute, Ronaldo headed in from a close range to complete his hat-trick, while Espanyol defender Oscar Duarte scored a late own goal to pile further misery on his side.
The Zinedine Zidane-led side are now standing at the third spot in La Liga table, with just four points behind leaders Barcelona.
Real Madrid will now lock horns with Granada on February 8.
