A gritty victory

Real Sociedad returned to winning ways tonight, showing grit and character in a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Sevilla. Two first-half goals from Mikel Oyarzabal earned the txuri-urdin a much-needed boost of confidence.

The game started to swing in La Real’s favour just after the 15th minute, when a Sevilla defender handled the ball in the area, resulting in a penalty. Mikel Oyarzabal stepped up and calmly converted from the spot. The txuri-urdin went ahead, but their lead was short-lived, as Gudelj equalised before the half-hour mark with a well-executed set-piece finish. Real struck again shortly after, capitalising on a defensive mistake, and once again Mikel Oyarzabal restored the lead with a precise left-footed strike across goal.

The second half unfolded mostly in midfield, with clear opportunities hard to come by for either team—an advantage for Real Sociedad. In the closing moments, when Sevilla appeared ready to press, the txuri-urdin kept up their intensity and high pressing. In one of these attacks, Sergio Gómez almost scored the third, forcing the goalkeeper into a crucial save that nearly resulted in a goal.

The three points remain at Anoeta—and they were much needed. The team must, and can, continue their climb up the table. Next up: the Copa del Rey, before the derby.

Match details:

Real Sociedad: Remiro; Aramburu, Zubeldia, Martín, Sergio Gómez (Marín, 86’); Gorrotxa, Herrera (Soler, 33’); Brais Méndez (Turrientes, 69’); Guedes (Aihen, 69’), Barrene (Zakharyan, 69’) and Oyarzabal (captain).

Sevilla FC: Odysseas; Carmona, Cardoso (Ejuke, 53’), Marcao, Suazo; Agoumé (Peque, 53’), Gudelj (captain), Sow (Alfon, 79’); Alexis (Juanlu, 53’), Vargas and Isaac (Akor, 66’).

Goals: 1–0: Oyarzabal (pen.) 19. 1–1: Gudelj 30’. 2–1: Oyarzabal 36’.

Referee: Adrián Cordero. Booked Agoumé, Sow and Carmona for Sevilla FC.

Attendance: 30,965 spectators.