The Real Sociedad vs. Real Madrid clash in La Liga promises to be one of the most exciting fixtures of the season.
Real Madrid, aiming to maintain their winning momentum and solidify their position at the top of the table, will face a tough test against a familiar Real Sociedad team.
Real Sociedad vs. Real Madrid Match Overview
- Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025
- Time: 14:15 UTC (16:15 CEST, 10:15 AM EST)
- Venue: Reale Arena, San Sebastian, Spain
- Competition: La Liga (Matchday 4)
- Broadcast: Available worldwide on DAZN, Movistar LaLiga, ESPN+ (US), and various streaming platforms
Current Form and Team Analysis
Real Sociedad
Real Sociedad has experienced a challenging start to the 2025/26 campaign, currently sitting 16th in the La Liga table with just 2 points from their opening three matches . Their recent form shows a team struggling to convert performances into victories, with their last five matches across all competitions yielding no wins .
Recent Results:
- Lost 1-0 to Real Oviedo (La Liga)
- Drew 2-2 with Espanyol (La Liga)
- Drew 1-1 with Valencia (La Liga)
The Basques have demonstrated defensive vulnerabilities, conceding goals in each of their league matches this season . Manager Sergio Francisco typically employs a 4-2-3-1 formation that emphasizes compact defending and patient build-up, but the team has struggled with offensive output, averaging just one goal per match .
Real Madrid
In stark contrast, Real Madrid has enjoyed a flawless start to their La Liga campaign, sitting top of the table with 9 points from three matches . Under the guidance of manager Xabi Alonso, Los Blancos have displayed both offensive firepower and defensive solidity, conceding just once while scoring six goals.
Recent Results:
- Won 2-1 against Mallorca (La Liga)
- Back-to-back victories in opening league fixtures
- Strong pre-season preparations
Real Madrid’s attacking prowess has been significantly boosted by the exceptional form of Kylian Mbappé, who has scored three goals in his first three starts for the club . The team typically sets up in a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formation, leveraging quick vertical transitions and fluid wide play to overwhelm opponents.
Head-to-Head Statistics
The historical record between these two clubs heavily favors Real Madrid, who have dominated this fixture over the years .
| Competition | Matches | Real Sociedad Wins | Real Madrid Wins | Draws |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| All Competitions | 50 | 9 | 31 | 10 |
| La Liga | 38 | 6 | 26 | 6 |
| Copa del Rey | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Real Madrid has remained unbeaten against Real Sociedad in their last six meetings (5 wins, 1 draw), including comprehensive 2-0 victories in both league fixtures last season .
Key Players and Team News
Real Sociedad
Expected Starting XI (4-2-3-1): Álex Remiro; Jon Aramburu, Igor Zubeldia, Aritz Elustondo, Aihen Muñoz; Brais Méndez, Benat Turrientes; Takefusa Kubo, Pablo Marín, Ander Barrenetxea; Orri Steinn Óskarsson
Key Players:
- Takefusa Kubo: The creative heartbeat of the team, capable of unsettling defenses with his technical ability and vision
- Mikel Oyarzabal: The experienced forward who remains a threat despite the team’s struggles
- Álex Remiro: The goalkeeper will need to be in exceptional form to keep Madrid’s attackers at bay
Injury Concerns: Real Sociedad will be without Orri Oskarsson and Yangel Herrera due to injuries .
Real Madrid
Expected Starting XI (4-2-3-1): Thibaut Courtois; Daniel Carvajal, Éder Militão, Dean Huijsen, Álvaro Fernández; Federico Valverde, Aurélien Tchouaméni; Rodrygo, Arda Güler, Vinícius Júnior; Kylian Mbappé.
Key Players:
- Kylian Mbappé: Already showcasing his world-class ability with 3 goals in 3 matches
- Vinícius Júnior: His pace and dribbling will test Sociedad’s defensive resolve
- Thibaut Courtois: Provides security and experience in goal
Injury Concerns: Real Madrid has several significant absences including Jude Bellingham (shoulder), Eduardo Camavinga (ankle), Ferland Mendy (thigh), and Endrick (thigh).
Score Prediction
Most analysts predict a 3-1 victory for Real Madrid . This aligns with Madrid’s offensive efficiency and Sociedad’s defensive vulnerabilities, though the Basque team may manage a consolation goal at home.
