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Real Sociedad wrapped up the Europa League group stage with a win, sealing their place in the UEFA Europa League play-offs. A brace from Óskarsson in tonight’s victory over PAOK means the txuri-urdin will face either AZ Alkmaar or FC Midtjylland in the next knockout round.
The match started with a slow tempo. PAOK had the first big chance, but Marrero pulled off a stunning double save to deny Camara—first in a one-on-one and then with a stunning reflex stop on the rebound. The hosts tried their luck with efforts from Zubimendi and Becker, but without success. Just before the break, they finally struck, as Óskarsson nodded home a pinpoint cross from Becker.
The second half got off to the perfect start. Aritz whipped in a perfect delivery, and Óskarsson powered in another header. The Icelandic forward nearly completed his hat-trick, but his header rattled the crossbar. PAOK had a few chances, but Marrero stood firm. Becker and Brais came close to adding a third, but the scoreline remained 2-0.
Real Sociedad now turn their focus to the play-offs, where AZ Alkmaar or FC Midtjylland await. The draw takes place tomorrow. We are Real.
Match sheet:
Real Sociedad: Marrero, Odriozola (Martín, min.46), Aritz (cap), Aguerd, Sergio Gómez (Javi López, min.80), Zubimendi (Olasagasti, min.63), Brais Méndez, Marín, Barrene (Take, min.73), Becker and Óskarsson (Oyarzabal, min.73).
PAOK FC: Kotarski, Jonny, Kedziora, Michailidis, Baba, Ozdoev (Konstantelias, min.63), Schwab, Camara, Despodov (Shoretire, min.71), Taison, Brandon (Chalov, min.71).
Goals: 1-0: Óskarsson, min.43. 2-0: Óskarsson, min.48.
Referee: Beaton (Scotland). Booked Odriozola and Olasagasti for Real Sociedad and Ozdoev for PAOK FC.
Attendance: 23,872 spectators.