Spanish giant Real Madrid has returned to the top of the La Liga table, while previous leaders Barcelona tie 1-1 against Athletic Bilbao.

Real, coached by Manuel Pellegrini, beat struggling Racing Santander 1-0 at the Camp Nou on Saturday evening.

Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain scored the winner in the 22nd minute when he pounced from close range after Kaka's right-wing cross was not cleared.

French forward Karim Benzema almost doubled the advantage for the hosts in the 55th minute, but his effort was ruled out for a marginal offside before he made way for Raul.

Santander could have tied the game but Sergio Canales' 77th minute effort was ruled out for an offside by a teammate who was not in the line of play.

"It is always complicated after a two-week break and coming off the back of the Kings Cup loss," Real boss Manuel Pellegrini said. "When you get towards the end of the match with only a goal cushion it is always risky, but we had several chances and also hit the post twice."

Pellegrini's men have a big week ahead with Wednesday's Champions league clash against FC Zurich and then the "El Clasico" battle with Barcelona on Sunday.

In another match same day, holders Barcelona could only draw 1-1 at Athletic Bilbao.

Pep Guardiola's side took the lead in the 54th minute when Xavi threaded a pass to Dani Alves and the Brazilian fullback slotted in the opening goal. The lead, however, lasted only nine minutes as substitute Gaizka Toquero ghosted in behind Alves to send his teammate's headed flick-on into the net.

Barca is scheduled to face Italian champions Inter Milan in the Champions League on Tuesday.

Real now tops the standings with 28 points from 11 games
with a one-point lead over Barcelona ahead of next Sunday's eagerly-anticipated 'El Clasico' at Nou Camp.

HRF/JG