BARCELONA, Spain - James Rodriguez scored a stunning goal to lead Real Madrid to a 3-0 win over Almeria on Wednesday that kept his side two points behind leader Barcelona in the final stretch of the Spanish league title race.

Rodriguez volleyed home a long-range strike seconds before halftime at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.

Almeria defender Mauro Dos Santos deflected a pass meant for Cristiano Ronaldo into his own goal in the 49th to put Madrid in complete control.

Defender Alvaro Arbeloa sealed the win from Javier Hernandez's pass six minutes from time.

With four rounds left, Madrid next faces a tough visit at Sevilla on Saturday, while Barcelona plays at last-place Cordoba.