An early Karim Benzema header gives Real Madrid a 1-0 lead over Atletico Madrid at the Vicente Calderon, as Antoine Griezmann misses a penalty for the hosts.

An early Karim Benzema header has given Real Madrid a 1-0 half-time lead over Atletico Madrid at the Vicente Calderon this evening.

Karim Benzema of Real Madrid scores Real's opening goal during the La Liga match between Club Atletico de Madrid and Real Madrid at Vicente Calderon Stadium on October 4, 2015 © Getty Images

The visitors raced in front after just nine minutes, as Dani Carvajal whipped in a cross from the right wing, and Benzema rose highest to head past Atletico keeper Jan Oblak.

Atletico responded well to going behind as Oliver Torres found Angel Correa, who drilled a shot wide of the bottom corner, before the young Argentine created space for another shot, only to miss the target.

The hosts were awarded a penalty on 21 minutes as Sergio Ramos brought down Tiago in the Real penalty area, but Antoine Griezmann's spot kick attempt was well saved by Keylor Navas.

Cristiano Ronaldo could have doubled his side's lead on 34 minutes when Benzema found the Portuguese international in the box, but the 30-year-old blazed over the bar, before the Madrid talisman struck a free kick over Oblak's goal.

Real Madrid head coach Rafael Benitez was forced into an early substitution before the break, as Alvaro Arbeloa replaced Carvajal, who picked up a knock from a heavy Correa challenge.