Real Sociedad drew 0-0 with Real Betis this afternoon at the Reale Arena. Three offside goals, one of which was extremely close, prevented Real Sociedad players from dedicating the victory to Aitor Zabaleta.
Real played as usual, while Betis were fighting for possession and launching a few dangerous attacks. After André Silva's goal was correctly disallowed, the txuri urdin had the finest chance of the first half with a curving effort from Zubimendi that hit the post after Rui Silva's touch. Ayoze's angled attempt also hit the woodwork. Just before halftime, another goal was disallowed for offside, meticulously but correctly whistled, again involving André Silva.
The woodwork denied another Real Sociedad's goal at the start of the second half. Oyarzabal's straight free kick struck the post. Real had more control but struggled to create dangerous opportunities. Betis had an opportunity after a good counterattack by Diao. Despite everyone's best efforts, Imanol's team failed to secure a victory for Aitor in the last minutes.
A draw between two Europa League contenders. Real was slightly superior, but a point looks reasonable. We are Real!
Match sheet:
Real Sociedad: Remiro, Traoré, Zubeldia, Le Normand, Tierney (Aihen, min.84), Zubimendi, Merino (Olasagasti, min.84), Zakharyan (Turrientes, min.58), Take, Oyarzabal (cap)(Magunazelaia, min.76), André Silva (Sadiq, min.58).
Real Betis Balompié: Rui Silva, Aitor Ruibal, Pezzella, Chadi Riad, Abner, Altimira (Carvalho, min.73), Marc Roca, Isco, Ayoze, Abde (Rodri, min.73), and Willian José (Diao, min.58).
Referee: Busquets Ferrer. Booked Olasagasti and Le Normand for Real Sociedad, and Marc Roca, Aitor Ruibal, Ayoze, and Isco for Real Betis.