Substitute Gareth Bale received a mixed reception at the Bernabeu as Real Madrid fought back from an early goal, to defeat Real Sociedad, and stay joint-top of La Liga with Barcelona.
It's been a week of highs for the Wales and Real Madrid forward. A 2-0 win for Wales saw them make the European championship for the second time in a row. Then on his return to Madrid the 67th minute substitute helped Madrid Mount a comeback to keep the pressure on Barcelona by beating Real Sociedad.
Bale was jeered by supporters when the team was first announced in the pre-match warmup. He received a similar response when introduced from the bench after 67 minutes! This was Gareths first Real appearance since 5 October, having picked up injuries on duty with Wales earlier on in the qualifying stages.
The Spanish media heavily criticised the Wales forward after posing with the contentious flag as his country secured qualification for Euro 2020 on Tuesday. The Madrid manager Zidane insisted there was no need to discuss the incident further and by full-time Bale appeared to have earned back some support from the vocal crowd. He eventually received applause for the part he played in Modric's third and also for his defensive efforts as Real closed out the game.
The result puts Madrid level on 28 points with top of the table Barcelona. Los Blancos only edging into first place thanks to a one-goal advantage in goal difference.
