The Dutch midfielder scored the winner on 39 minutes from a long-rang shot that deflected into Recre's net.

The defending champions coach Bernd Schuster was in a dire need of a victory, after his side had lost 1-0 to minnows Valladolid last week.

Los Merengues Hitman Ruud van Nistelrooy and midfilder Arjen Robben missed the game through injury.

Argentine ace Gonzalo Higuain has also picked up an injury during the game, and thus was replaced with compatriot Javier Saviola.

The victory kept the capital side on track for the title with 26 points, trailing leaders and arch-rivals Barcelona by two.

Elsewhere, Villarreal's 17-match unbeaten run was a chokingly ended by a 3-0 loss to Real Valladolid.

Jonathan Sesma scored a double (24, 44) and Pedro Leon netted the third for the visitors on 45 minutes.

The yellow submarine now lie third, one point behind Real.

Watch Sneijder's goal: