Real Sociedad drew 1-1 this afternoon against Manchester United in a match that unfolded with increasing intensity. The txuri urdin managed to equalize the English goal in the second half. It was a tightly contested game, lacking in brilliance, leaving everything to play for in the return leg next Thursday.
The first half saw limited attacking opportunities. Real Sociedad enjoyed more possession but found it challenging to create opportunities. Turrientes’ shot from the edge of the box, after a skillful individual run, was the standout moment for the txuri urdin. Meanwhile, the English side had a couple of close attempts in a messy situation inside the box, which Aritz saved heroically off the line.
At the beginning of the second half, both teams looked to exploit the flanks. Oyarzabal missed a chance from a Kubo cross, and Garnacho hit the side netting with another cross. The visitors started to push harder, and Zirkzee's shot put the Red Devils ahead, leaving Real Sociedad in a tough spot. As the game progressed, Imanol’s team regained their rhythm, and a set-piece situation led to the VAR alerting the referee to award a penalty to the txuri urdin. Oyarzabal converted it calmly, re-engaging the team in the match. These moments might have been the peak for Imanol’s squad as they pressed for a second goal. Onana had to step up, saving a Brais shot that was aiming for the top corner. Near the end, the home team had their clearest chance. Becker sent in a beautiful cross, but Óskarsson, pressured by a defender, shot wide when a goal seemed certain. The striker had another opportunity in stoppage time, striking a powerful left-footed shot that was saved by the keeper.
The draw leaves everything open for the second leg. They could have secured a win but also faced a worse outcome. The battle continues. We are Real.
Match sheet:
Real Sociedad: Remiro, Aritz (Aramburu, min.63), Zubeldia, Aguerd, Aihen, Turrientes (Marín, min.63), Sučić (Olasagasti, min.88), Brais Méndez, Take (Becker, min.81), Barrene (Óskarsson, min.63) and Oyarzabal (cap).
Manchester United: Onana, Mazraoui, De Ligt, Yoro (Lindelof, min.88), Casemiro, Fernandes (cap), Dalot, Dorgu, Zirkzee (Collyer, min.88), Garnacho (Eriksen, min.78) and Hojlund.
Goals: 0-1: Zirkzee, min.57. 1-1: Oyarzabal (pen), min.70.
Referee: Kruzliak (Slovakia). Booked Zubeldia for Real Sociedad and Fernandes for Manchester United.
Attendance: 34,391 spectators.