We suffered a lot! The realistas kept us on tenterhooks until the final whistle but we all are happy tonight. Real scored a late goal to clinch the equalizer they needed to ensure their place in Europe! Real finish sixth in LaLiga and qualify directly for the Europa League.
It wasn’t Imanol’s side best match. Atlético are one of the toughest opponents and took the lead in the first half. A goal by Koke put the colchoneros up front whereas Real had only one chance. As things stood at the break, Real was out of Europe.
From then on, the txuri urdin went all out in search of the equaliser. The game increased in intensity. Oblak denied Ødegaard from close range and Barrene’s volley went wide. The txuri urdin dominated the second half but were not able to capitalize their chances. Emotions and nerves were running high as if it were a final. Portu was close to score but his crossed shot was denied by Oblak. Then, in the 88th minute Januzaj beat Oblak to give Real a much desired continental ticket.
Real end the season in sixth place, an unforgettable season for many reasons. A direct pass to the Europa League is a recognition for the team’s hard work. Thank you to all supporters that, despite these circumstances, stood by our side. Realistas, get your passports ready! Aupa Real!
Match sheet:
Atlético de Madrid: Oblak, Trippier (Giménez, min.78), Savic, Felipe, Lodi, Thomas, Herrera (Correa, min.56), Koke (cap), Vitolo (Carrasco, min.56), Morata (Llorente, min.65) and Diego Costa (Joao Felix, min.56).
Real Sociedad: Moyá, Gorosabel (Aritz, min.46), Llorente (Barrenetxea, min.46), Le Normand, Monreal, Zubeldia, Zubimendi, Merino, Odegaard (Portu, min.65), Oyarzabal (cap) (Januzaj, min.78) and Isak (Willian José, min.65).
Goals: 1-0: Koke min.30. 1-1: Januzaj, min.88.
Referee: González Fuertes. Booked Thomas for Atlético de Madrid and Gorosabel and Monreal for Real Sociedad.