Real had to wait until extra time at the Power Horse Stadium to secure the three points. Goals from Oyarzabal, Carlos Fernández, and Zubimendi brought smiles to the txuri urdin fans.
The match began with the realistas’ usual domination, as they managed the game brilliantly. Sadiq came close to scoring in his return to his former home. First, with a left-footed shot that hit the post. Then, with a distance volley saved by the keeper. Despite their domination and superiority, Real couldn't reflect their performance on the scoreboard.
The txuri urdin took the lead from a corner in the second half, after Turrientes had a goal disallowed. Aritz flicked the ball near post, and Oyarzabal finished into the net, like he always does. Arribas equalized after a Real Sociedad mistake, and Carlos Fernández squandered a good chance. However, Carlos Fernández was able to secure the win thanks to a VAR-awarded penalty. In extra time, Zubimendi scored with a header to put the game to bed.
Real struggled more than expected for a crucial win before the break. We are Real!
Match details:
UD Almería: Maximiano, Mendes, Chumi, González, Akieme, Robertone (c)(Melero, min.72), Lopy (Marciano, min.92), Arribas (Baba, min.87), Embarba (Lázaro, min.72), Ramazani, and Leo Baptistao.
Real Sociedad: Remiro, Traoré, Aritz, Le Normand, Aihen, Zubimendi, Turrientes (Olasagasti, min.81), Zakharyan (Cho, min.74), Barrene (Take, min.46), Oyarzabal (c)(Carlos Fernández, min.66), and Sadiq (Merino, min.46).
Goals: 0-1: Oyarzabal, min.62. 1-1: Arribas, min.76. 1-2: Carlos Fernández (pen.), min.91. 1-3: Zubimendi, min.95.
Referee: Díaz de Mera. Booked Robertone and Embarba for UD Almería and Sadiq and Aihen for Real Sociedad.