Real Madrid returned to winning ways in emphatic fashion as they thrashed city rivals Rayo Vallecano at the Santiago Bernabeu to move level on points with Barcelona at the top of La Liga.
The victory came eight days after their shock defeat by Real Betis and gave Real four wins from their first five matches of the new campaign. They made a fast start against Vallecano, building a three-goal advantage within the opening 35 minutes before securing a 4-1 victory.
Real Madrid makes flying start in La Liga
Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring after 14 minutes, sending Rayo goalkeeper Emil Audero the wrong way from the penalty spot. The spot-kick was awarded after Alvaro Carreras was fouled inside the area.
Mbappe then turned provider three minutes later, setting up Carreras to double Real Madrid's lead. The left-back finished emphatically as the hosts quickly took control of the contest.
Jude Bellingham added a third 10 minutes before half-time after a sweeping attacking move. Vinicius Jr's cut-back found the England international, who side-footed the ball into the net.
Mbappe came close to adding another before the interval, but his fierce effort struck the woodwork. The French forward was therefore denied a second goal of the evening and a sixth of the La Liga campaign at that stage.
Rayo Vallecano fights back against Real Madrid
Rayo Vallecano managed to reduce the deficit early in the second half through Sergio Camello, giving the visitors hope of mounting a comeback at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Real Madrid, however, remained in control and continued to threaten as they looked to restore their three-goal advantage. Despite Rayo's response, the hosts were ultimately able to finish the match strongly.
The decisive moment arrived in stoppage time when Mbappe found the net again. He fired a low, powerful effort into the far corner to complete the scoring and put the result beyond doubt.
The victory also extended Real Madrid's strong home record against Rayo Vallecano, making it 14 wins from their last 15 meetings with Vallecano at home.
Real Madrid and Barcelona are at the top
The result leaves Real Madrid level on points with Barcelona at the summit of La Liga after five matches. Their response to the defeat by Real Betis ensured they immediately returned to winning ways.
Barcelona now have the opportunity to restore a three-point advantage when they face Levante on Sunday at 15:15 BST.
Real Madrid's victory means the battle at the top remains tight, with Barcelona needing a win to move clear again.