Arda Guler marked his first La Liga start with a goal as Real Madrid took a significant step towards the league title with a win over Real Sociedad.

The 19-year-old Turkish midfielder, highly regarded for his talent, found the net midway through the first half, converting a cross for Madrid's opening goal.

Carlo Ancelotti made several changes to the team following their victory in El Clasico last weekend, and Real Sociedad began the game with a strong start, dominating possession.

However, they failed to convert their dominance into goals as Madrid's defense held firm.

Takefusa Kubo thought he had equalized immediately after Guler's goal, but his effort was disallowed for offside.

The second half saw a more scrappy affair, but Real Madrid managed to secure the win, moving 14 points clear at the top of the table ahead of second-placed Barcelona, who will face Valencia on Monday.

With just five games remaining, Real Madrid now only need four more points to secure the La Liga title.