THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

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MADRID, Spain - Gonzalo Higuain scored twice Saturday to give Real Madrid a much-needed 2-0 win over Getafe in the Spanish league to ease the pressure on coach Manuel Pellegrini.

The Argentina forward struck twice in the second half after Madrid defender Raul Albiol had been sent off in the 27th minute.

It was an improved performance by Madrid after Tuesday's humiliating 4-0 loss to third-division club Alcorcon in the Copa del Rey that brought speculation that Pellegrini was about to be fired.

Madrid and Barcelona lead the standings with 22 points but Barcelona plays at Osasuna later Saturday.