Brilliant Karim Benzema drags shocking Real Madrid past Levante 3-2 on Eden Hazard’s return at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Former France striker drew first blood for the hosts the lead in the 25th minute when he headed home from Daniel Carvajal’s cross with Levante looking to settle from conceding, Benzema struck again seven minutes later, showing strength to hold off two defenders and swivel on James Rodriguez’s pass and slot home.Zinedine Zidane’s side made it 3-0 just before the break after Casemiro finished off a flowing team moveHowever, there was controversy surrounding the goal, as the Brazilian was lucky to escape a red card for a late challenge on Real Madrid loanee Borja Mayoral minutes before.

After the restart, Levante pulled one back as Mayoral stabbed a low effort past Courtois at the near post where he tapped in Carlos Clerc’s cross on 50 minutes.Zidane brought Hazard on for his debut with just over 20 minutes remaining, but it was Levante that were to steal the second half headlines as Gonzalo Melero nodded home with 15 minutes left.But there was to be no late drama as Real Madrid managed to hold on to earn their first maximum points at home.