Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates after scoring the opening goal against Alaves during the Spanish La Liga soccer match between Real Madrid and Alaves at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid. Pic/AFP

A Cristiano Ronaldo double and Gareth Bale's first goal in seven matches helped Real Madrid thrash Alaves 4-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday to strengthen their grip on a top-three spot in La Liga. The reigning champions' title hopes are all but over, with Real 11 points adrift of leaders Barcelona in third, but a run of four straight wins has ended any worries of missing out on a Champions League spot.