Points slip away

Real Sociedad couldn't secure a positive result tonight against a Real Madrid side, who capitalized on a solitary goal from Arda Guller in the first half to clinch victory. The side from San Sebastián had their chances, particularly in the first half, but their failure to capitalize on opportunities in the attacking third proved costly.

The match began brightly for an energetic Real Sociedad. They nearly found the back of the net with two well-delivered crosses, and a well-coordinated move led to Take forcing Kepa into a superb save near the post. The txuri urdin remained solid, coming close to scoring with a powerful shot from Turrientes that narrowly missed the crossbar. However, it was Real Madrid who seized the opportunity with a swift counterattack, allowing Arda Guller to give the visitors the lead.

The second half kicked off with another promising attempt from Turrientes, which once again forced Kepa to deflect the ball for a corner. Real Sociedad struggled to generate clear-cut chances, but Oyarzabal had a golden opportunity with a delicate chip that looked destined for the goal, only to be denied by a fortunate deflection from Rudiger, keeping the scoreline in Real Madrid's favor. Despite their efforts and determination, Real Sociedad couldn't find the elusive equalizer.

Against opponents of such caliber, creating opportunities isn't enough; they must be capitalized upon. Real Sociedad's inability to convert their chances meant they left empty-handed, despite a valiant performance. While they deserved a better outcome, merit alone doesn't earn points. We are Real.

Match sheet:

Real Sociedad: Remiro, Odriozola (Aritz, min.75), Zubeldia, Le Normand (André Silva, min.89), Javi Galán, Zubimendi, Turrientes (Zakharyan, min.67), Merino, Barrene (Becker, min.75), Take, and Oyarzabal (cap).

Real Madrid: Arrizabalaga, Carvajal (cap), Militao, Nacho, Fran García (Rudiger, min.76), Tchouameni, Modric (Lucas Vázquez, min.84), Ceballos (Valverde, min.68), Arda Guller (Vinicius, min.68), Brahim (Camavinga, min.76), and Joselu.

Goal: 0-1: Arda Guller, min.29.

Referee: Munuera Montero. Booked Le Normand, Zubeldia, Merino for Real Sociedad, and Arda Guller, Fran García, Tchouameni, and Nacho for Real Madrid.

Attendance: 37,109 spectators.