In the 8th round of La Liga, Real Sociedad will host Rayo Vallecano at Anoeta in San Sebastián on Sunday. Here’s what you need to know about this match.
Match preview
Real Sociedad has struggled this season. Under new coach Sergio Francisco, they didn’t secure a victory until the sixth round when they beat Mallorca 1-0. Before that, they faced three losses and two draws. In the last round, they lost 1-2 to Barcelona, but they performed respectably against the top team. Currently, Sociedad has just five points and is near the relegation zone, which is below their expectations.
Rayo Vallecano finds itself in a similar situation, with the same points as Real Sociedad after seven matches. Their only win was in the opening round against Girona (3-1). Since then, they have recorded four losses and two draws, both finishing 1-1 against Barcelona and Celta. However, they are doing well in the Conference League, winning their first match against Shkëndija 2-0.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Five of Sociedad’s last seven matches have had fewer than two goals.
- In five of their last seven matches, Real Sociedad conceded the first goal.
- Five of Rayo Vallecano’s last six matches have also seen fewer than two goals.
- In the last ten meetings, Real Sociedad has won four times, Rayo Vallecano once, and five matches ended in a draw.
Probable lineups
- Real Sociedad: Remiro – Odriozola, Zubeldia, Ćaleta-Car, Gomez – Gorrotzategi, Mendez, Soler – Kubo, Barrenetxea, Oyarzabal
- Rayo Vallecano: Batalla – Ratiu, Ciss, Lejeune, Chavarría – Diaz, Valentin, Palazón – De Frutos, Garcia – Alemao
Prediction
This match is important for both teams as they aim to move up the table and avoid relegation. Expect a cautious game with plenty of pressure, so a prediction of Under 2.5 total goals seems likely.