An unconvincing Real Madrid needed a controversial Cristiano Ronaldo penalty deep into stoppage time to snatch a 2-1 win at promoted Elche on Wednesday that kept it hard on the heels of La Liga leaders Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.

The Portugal forward smashed home a free kick to put Real ahead in the 51st minute against a plucky Elche side before substitute Richmond Boakye looked to have secured a point when he headed past Diego Lopez in the 91st minute.

There was more drama to come, however, as Real won a final corner and the referee pointed to the penalty spot after Pepe tangled with midfielder Carlos Sanchez in the area.