Real Sociedad returned to the good football they have been showing this season as they beat Valencia CF 3-2 this afternoon. A brace from Willian José gave the realistas an advantage and Dani Parejo reduced the distance on the board with a controversial penalty, all of which in the first 45 minutes. Towards the end of the game, Juanmi and Bakkali added to the scoresheet, bringing to a close a game in which the blanquiazules returned to show a high level to their game, especially in the first half, and take three points which places them back in the privileged part of the league standings.
The team was eager to make up for Monday’s defeat and did so showing their best version. Against a rival who was keen to turn their situation around, Eusebio’s team gave a good account, and looked just like the side we have enjoyed seeing this season. It was no coincidence that they were justly rewarded for an excellent first half performance – two headers from Willian José put the Txuri-urdin on their way in the first half hour. But a debatable penalty decision put the visitors back into the game.
The game levelled out in the second half although it was the home team who looked the more dangerous of the two. Vela, had a penalty saved by Diego Alves, Zurutuza saw his effort cleared off the line and Juanmi, could have put the hosts further ahead. In stoppage time, a superb ball from Carlos Vela with the outside of his boot was turned in by Juanmi. But in the following move, Bakkali slotted into an empty net, meaning Real Sociedad had to wait for the final whistle before cheering victory.
It’s a win which reaffirms that the Txuri-urdin are back on path – one which we should enjoy. Three more points to continue in the top part of the table, and to continue dreaming.
Match details:
Real Sociedad: Rulli, C. Martínez, Raúl Navas, I. Martínez, Yuri B., Illarra, Zurutuza, (Granero, min.89) X. Prieto, Carlos V., Oyarzabal (Canales, min. 71), Willian J. (Juanmi, min. 48).
Valencia CF: Diego Alves, Joao Cancelo, Santos, Abdennour, Montoya, M. Suárez (C. Soler, min. 78), Fede C. (Santi Mina, min. 35), Medrán, Parejo, Rodrigo M., Munir (Bakkali, min. 72).
Goals: 1-0: Willian J., min. 2; 2-0: Willian J., min. 24: 2-1: Parejo (p), min. 36; 3-1: Juanmi, min.91. 3-2: Bakkali, min.92.
Referee: Estrada Fernández. Booked I. Martínez, Carlos V. and Illarra (Real Sociedad), and Montoya, Abdennour, Parejo and Bakkali (Valencia). Joao Cancelo was sent off for a second booking on 82 minutes.
Attendance: 22,817 spectators.