Real Madrid came back from behind twice to win a dramatic and controversial game 3-2 in the Santiago Bernabeu against local rivals Getafe.

Former Real Madrid striker Roberto Soldado opened the scoring for the visitors after nine minutes and Getafe had further chances to score before Gonzalo Higuain leveled the score with virtually the last touch of the first half.

Getafe continued to dominate in the second period and was rewarded when Juan Albin put them back in front with just seven minutes remaining.

A Guti free kick made it 2-2 just two minutes later. However, on 87 minutes Getafe had the chance to win the game.

Real Madrid defender Pepe was sent off for a brutal aggression after he kicked out at Paco Casquero after pushing him over in the penalty area. Pepe's aggression will probably cost him at least a four-game suspension.

Incredibly Getafe midfielder Paco Casquero then wasted the chance by tamely chipping the resulting penalty allowing Iker Casillas to make a simple save.

With time running out Higuain then gave Real an unlikely win with a powerful shot from outside of the penalty area.

In the night's other game, Athletic Club Bilbao came back from a goal down to claim a brave win away to Numancia. Gaizka Toquero and Fernando Llorente scored the goals for the Basque outfit, who played for most of the game after defender Aitor Ocio had been harshly sent off.

The defeat leaves Numancia bottom of the table and looking favorites for relegation.

(Xinhua News Agency April 22, 2009)