In style. It could not be done any other way. La Real could not have lived a better start for the UEFA Europa League group stage, as they dominated their game against Rosenborg from start to finish and beat the Norwegian leaders by 4-0. The fans were really looking forward for this year’s continental debut and the team responded with the same brilliance and impeccability they’ve shown in this magic start of the season.
It does not matter who plays in the first XI, who comes on as a sub, who is the rival. This Real Sociedad wants to do great things this season and they are showing exactly that in every game. Las night it was Rosenborg, a classic in European competition, the team that was punished by the amazing football the realistas are playing. Goals by Llorente (2), Zurutuza and Skjlevic (o.g.) sealed the perfect debut. And this is only the beginning.
At the dazzled Anoeta stadium, Llorente and Zurutuza had the local fans standing twice only 15 minutes into the game. The central defender made the most of Illarramendi’s shot, and the midfielder wonderfully headed a true ‘gift’ from the captain. From then on the trail was blazed for Eusebio’s men, who showed absolute superiority. The Scandinavians were not able to hold on to the ball and their only resource was the odd long-distance effort. Both Xabi Prieto and Willian José were close to heading the third home, but finally it was the visitor’s defense who did, with Skjelvic deflecting Prieto’s cross into his own net.
But La Real were ambitious. True to their own style, they wanted more and played to get more. Both Willian José and Juanmi wanted to increase their tally, but this time their aim
was not quite true. In turn, it was Llorente who got his second with a lovely header after a corner kick. Yet another offensive weapon for the txuri urdin’s well-stocked arsenal. It was worth the wait. After three seasons, La Real is back in Europe… and leaving a strong impression. There’s still a long way to go, but the fans are dreaming of doing something great. Nobody can take that away from us. Next stop, St. Petersburg.
Match details:
Real Sociedad: Rulli, Odriozola, Aritz, Llorente R., De la Bella, Illarra, Zurutuza (Zubeldia, min.76), X. Prieto (cap)(Juanmi, min.58), Carlos V., Canales y Willian J. (Bautista, min.68).
Rosenborg BK: André Hanse, Hedenstad, Reginiussen, Skjelvik, Meling, Jensen (cap), Trondsen, Konradsen (Lundemo, min.62), Adegbenro (Jevtovic, min.82), De Lanlay (Helland, min.74) y Bendtner.
Goals: 1-0: Llorente R., min.9. 2-0: Zurutuza, min.10. 3-0: Skjelvik (p.p.), min.41. 4-0: Llorente R., min.77.
Referree: Mazzoleni (Ita). Booked visitor Meling.