Benzema grabbed the only goal of the game nine minutes into the second-half with a cushioned header from Isco's fine cross.

Complicated game
Victory moves Madrid a point ahead of Barcelona at the top of the table with the Catalans not in action until today when they host Levante.

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"We knew before the game it could be a difficult game, against a good team that counter-attacks well, and that was how it was," said Madrid boss Rafael Benitez.

"We lost possession that allowed them to counter-attack and we didn't take our chances which complicated the game.

"I know we have to win and play well, but when the game doesn't go as you wish, to win and get the three points is very important."

The scene appeared to be set at a sunny Bernabeu for Ronaldo to surpass Raul to become Madrid's all-time top goalscorer.

There was even a special introduction for the World Player of the Year as his mascot for the day was Zaid Mohsen, the seven-year-old Syrian refugee made famous when he and his father were tripped by a Hungarian camerawoman.

However, the script wasn't followed once the action got underway as Granada passed up a host of chances to spring a massive surprise.