Kevin Gameiro scored a hat-trick as Sevilla thrashed Getafe 5-0 for a much-needed La Liga win on Saturday.
Unai Emery's men netted three times from the penalty spot, including once through Gameiro, for just their third win in nine league games this campaign.
Keylor Navas made a string of stunning saves to preserve his side's advantage, but the game looked to be over as a contest after the break when Gustavo Cabral received a controversial second yellow card for dissent.
Celta were not giving up though and former Barcelona man Nolito gave them hope by scoring with an excellent strike in the final minutes, but Rafael Benitez's men wrapped up the victory when Marcelo slotted home in stoppage time.
Madrid's victory in a classic encounter means they move three points clear of Celta and Barcelona – who play Eibar on Sunday – at the top of the table.
Elsewhere, lowly Granada played out their third consecutive draw – as Real Betis left with a 1-1 scoreline.
