MADRID - Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain is facing two months out of action if an operation on his back is needed to repair a herniated disc.

The 22-year-old has led Madrid in scoring in each of the past two seasons, but after sitting out Monday's 5-0 defeat to Barcelona with the injury, Higuain will seek a second opinion to see if he can avoid surgery.

Higuain has scored seven times in 12 league matches for Real this season, and his absence will open up a chance for French striker Karim Benzema.