Madrid, Sep 1 (IANS): Real Sociedad produced the shock of the season so far in Spain's BBVA Primera Liga as they hammered title hopefuls Real Madrid 4-2 in the Anoeta Stadium.

The Basque side showed great character after crashing out of the Europa League in midweek and falling 0-2 behind after just 10 minutes to goals from Gareth Bale and Sergio Ramos Sunday night, reports Xinhua.

But Real Madrid's weaknesses in defending high balls cost them dear as Inigo Martinez and David Zurutuza drew Real Sociedad level before halftime.

There was only one side in it after the break as Real Sociedad tore into Madrid and Zurutuza's second of the night put the home side ahead with 25 minutes remaining and Carlos Vela sealed the win after 75 minutes.

The result makes some of Real Madrid's summer sales, such as the recent departures of Angel Di Maria and Xabi Alonso look unwise as the team now looks seriously unbalanced, while Iker Casillas must be questioned after another weak performance in goal.