Real Madrid returned to the top of La Liga and extended their winning streak to five games with a 2-1 comeback victory over Real Sociedad.

At the Bernabeu Stadium, Ander Barrenetxea’s second attempt, which was saved superbly by on-loan Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, gave Madrid a five-minute lead.

But a minute after play resumed, Los Blancos equalized to raise expectations for a comeback.

Federico Valverde, a rookie, received a cutback pass from Fran Garcia and skillfully finished from the edge of the box.

With the game levelled, Madrid pushed forward for the winner and were eventually rewarded after a prolonged spell of dominance.

Former Newcastle and Stoke striker Joselu put Madrid ahead when he rose at the far post to head in Fran Garcia’s cross in the 60th minute.

Madrid had one last attempt late on to get a third but Jude Bellingham’s header was saved by goalkeeper Alex Ramiro.

The save brought the Englishman’s phenomenal scoring run to an end after netting five times in his first four games for his new club.

Madrid now have 15 points from five matches and are two points clear of defending champions Barcelona, who thrashed Real Betis 5-0 to go top on Saturday.