Needing to recover swiftly from a chastening 3-1 defeat in El Derbi at the weekend, Real predictably began on the front foot against their newly-promoted visitors.
Having never previously won at the Bernabéu (D5, L29), Las Palmas were arguably the perfect opponent for a Blancos response, with a clear plan of attack unfolding as several raking passes were pinged over Los Amarillos’ defence towards Joselu.
The hosts continued to probe as the half wore on, seeing multiple efforts from Rodrygo, Joselu, and Nacho saved by a seemingly unbeatable Álvaro Valles before the breakthrough finally came on the stroke of HT.
A Federico Valverde switch of play found Lucas Vázquez, who cut back to Brahim Díaz for his first goal of the season.
Filling the boots of current Ballon d'Or holder Karim Benzema is an unenviable task that Joselu appeared to struggle with during the first period, however, the Spanish international made amends for his series of wasted chances shortly after the restart.
Rodrygo teased his way into the box before picking out Joselu with a lofted cross, allowing the forward to guide a header beyond the helpless Valles - exactly what Carlo Ancelotti needed after a largely frustrating first half.
The introduction of previously injured Vinícius Júnior from the bench hardly inspired belief for Las Palmas, who now needed to double their La Liga account for the season if they were to claim anything from the contest.
In truth, there was very little to suggest anything other than a Real victory, with the away side’s gameplan seemingly out the window after falling behind.
A rather tepid end to proceedings saw Los Blancos canter to victory, bringing an end to a run of five home H2Hs in which they have scored three goals or more ahead of a top-of-the-table clash with surprise leaders Girona.
Having claimed a first league win since returning to the top-flight last time out, this was a reality check for a Las Palmas side who failed to register a shot in the first 70 minutes.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Rodrygo (Real Madrid)
