Real Madrid began their quest for the La Liga title with a 3-0 Gareth Bale-inspired victory over Real Sociedad.

With Los Blancos missing the likes of French striker Karim Benzema and superstar forward Cristiano Ronaldo, Bale was the lone representative of Real’s famous ‘BBC’ trio.

The Welshman did not disappoint as he headed the European Champions into the lead in just the second minute. then, just before half-time time, young Spanish star Marco Asensio notched his first goal of the La Liga season as he delicately chipped Sociedad’s goalkeeper following a ball across from  Raphael Varane.

Bale duly added his side’s third in extra time as he dribbled the ball past the goalkeeper and fired into the empty net. The win saw Los Blancos keep pace with defending champions Barcelona, who began their campaign with a resounding 6-2 thumping of Real Betis.

Meanwhile, losing Champions League finalists Atletico Madrid got their campaign off to a less than perfect start as they were held 1-1 by minnows Alaves.

Real are next in action when they face Celta Vigo at the Bernabeu on Saturday.

Kick-off is at 20:15.