Real Sociedad earned a hard-fought 2-1 victory in Herning this evening against FC Midtjylland, overcoming a difficult match. Despite the cold and tough pitch conditions, Imanol's side took a crucial step toward securing a spot in the UEFA Europa League Round of 16.
The match got off to a tense start as Castillo headed a dangerous free kick against the post in the home team’s first real opportunity. Real Sociedad soon took advantage of a penalty conceded by Brais (another stepping foul), which the midfielder confidently converted. The Danish side threatened Marrero several times with long-range efforts, but the Azpeitia-born goalkeeper stood firm. However, the most precise long-range strike came from Kubo, who unleashed a brilliant left-footed shot into the top corner from the edge of the box, extending the visitors’ lead. Just before halftime, Midtjylland responded with a well-worked move down the left, finished by Buksa to reduced the deficit.
After the break, Imanol’s men came out strong and controlled possession. Óskarsson came close to scoring, narrowly heading a Sergio Gómez cross wide, hinting that a third goal might be on the horizon. However, the txuri-urdin lacked sharpness in the final third, allowing the hosts to gain confidence and push for an equalizer. Their surge was short-lived, as Real Sociedad soon regained control. Oyarzabal had a golden opportunity—similar to Brais’ goal against RCD Espanyol—but couldn’t lift the ball over the goalkeeper. In the final minutes, Midtjylland threatened through set pieces, but the Spanish side stood strong to see out the win.
A crucial win that moves Real Sociedad one step closer to the next round. The decisive match will take place on Thursday at the Reale Arena. We are Real.
Match sheet:
FC Midtjylland: Lössl, Andersson, Diao, Bech, Paulinho (Jensen, min.77), Daniel Silva, Castillo (Franculino, min.66), Sorensen (Biskov, min.81), Osorio, Simsir (Gogorza, min.66) and Buksa.
Real Sociedad: Marrero, Aramburu, Aritz (cap), Pacheco (Aguerd, min.46), Balda (Javi López, min.24), Olasagasti (Zubimendi, min.46), Marín, Brais Méndez, Barrene (Sergio Gómez, min.46), Take and Óskarsson.
Goals: 0-1: Brais Méndez (pen.), min.11. 0-2: Take, min.31. 1-2: Buksa, min.38.
Referee: Grinfeeld (Israel). Booked Simsir and Castillo for FC Midtjylland and Balda, Brais Méndez, Aramburu and Zubimendi for Real Sociedad.