Match Insights

Match Report

Real Sociedad Overcome Celta Vigo's Possession Dominance with Clinical Finishing

Real Sociedad overcame a red card and Celta Vigo's 64% ball possession to secure a 3-1 victory at home. Despite being down a man for the entire second half, Real Sociedad capitalized on their limited chances, scoring three goals from just 10 total shots.

The turning point came in first-half stoppage time when Duje Ćaleta-Car received a controversial red card for Real Sociedad, leaving them shorthanded. However, they responded brilliantly, with Mikel Oyarzabal scoring twice, including a cool finish in the 75th minute to restore their lead after Iago Aspas had briefly equalized.

Tactically, Real Sociedad's compact defensive shape and clinical counterattacking proved too much for Celta Vigo, who dominated possession but managed just 4 shots on target despite taking 17 total shots. Oyarzabal's movement and finishing were the difference, as he scored twice from just 4 shots on target. In contrast, Celta Vigo struggled to break down Real Sociedad's resilient defense, failing to capitalize on their 64% ball possession.

The result highlights Real Sociedad's ability to grind out a win despite adversity, while Celta Vigo will rue their inability to turn their territorial dominance into clear-cut chances. This was a testament to Real Sociedad's tactical discipline and Oyarzabal's individual quality in front of goal.