WATCH : Gareth Bale finishes off a super counter attack by Real Madrid

Real Madrid knew that they had to get the three points if they wanted to keep up with Barcelona in La Liga. After two disappointing draws at home, Zidane realized that this trip had to see them coming away with three points.

And they began well as they took the lead early in the first half, before it was cancelled out by Real Sociedad. The match ebbed and flowed as Asensio forced an own goal which gave Madrid the lead heading into the break.

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As Sociedad looked for an equalizer, more spaces started opening up giving the likes of Asensio and Bale the license to really run the defense ragged, which is exactly what happened.

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Isco picked up the ball in his own half and gave a wonderful ball to Bale. Bale, who has been subject to much criticism lately, took the ball in his stride and shrugged off the defender to chip the ball into the back of the net.

The goal will be a huge relief for the Welshman. After being booed and whistled by his home fans, Bale needed a goal to lift his confidence. Zidane also praised his efforts and gave him confidence in the build up to the match which would have also helped.

Surely these sort of goals will help!