Barcelona Secures Comeback Against Real Sociedad in LaLiga Clash
Youth Meets Experience as Barcelona Triumphs
In a compelling display of skill, Barcelona emerged victorious against Real Sociedad with a score of 2-1 at the Estadi Lluis Companys, thanks to the collaboration between young sensation Lamine Yamal and veteran striker Robert Lewandowski. This match marked their third connection in just six LaLiga matches.
The home team was quick off the mark, applying immense pressure on Real Sociedad across the pitch, leaving Sergio Francisco’s team struggling to establish any rhythm.
First Half Highlights
An impressive save from Alex Remiro thwarted a powerful shot from Marcus Rashford, following a cleverly executed corner. Despite the relentless pressure from Barcelona, the visitors maintained a five-man defense that held firm for a significant portion of the match.
By the 20-minute mark, Barcelona had dominated possession with 89% of the ball, forcing Mikel Oyarzabal and his teammates into a defensive position with little chance to counterattack. Apart from Rashford’s shot and a weak attempt from Ronald Araujo, the Catalans had not capitalized on their control of the game.
Despite a lapse from Barcelona’s debutant Dro Fernandez that allowed Sociedad a counter-attack, a misplaced pass from Oyarzabal reflected the visitors’ struggles on the day.
As the game approached the half-hour mark, a swift transition from the Basque team saw Alvaro Odriozola score the opening goal. Remiro continued to shine, saving a near-own goal from Pedri, who had his follow-up effort deflected wide by Igor Zubeldia.
However, luck eluded Real Sociedad when just before halftime, Jules Kounde scored with a towering header from a corner taken by Rashford, bringing the score level.
Second Half Action
The second half commenced with an exciting exchange, with Aihen Munoz providing a cross that nearly allowed the visitors to regain the lead. Such missed opportunities often come back to haunt teams, and Barcelona took full advantage when they introduced the talented Lamine Yamal just after the hour mark. Just a minute later, Yamal’s determined run and precise cross set up Lewandowski for a classic header to secure the lead for the home side.
Oyarzabal had a chance to equalize soon after but failed to convert due to a poor first touch. Barcelona’s confidence returned, and they created further opportunities, including powerful shots from Rashford and Dani Olmo, both saved brilliantly by Remiro. An offside flag disrupted Yamal’s bid to score again as Barcelona pressed for a cushion.
Despite their high line causing vulnerabilities, Takefusa Kubo nearly equalized with a shot that hit the post, adding to the tension in the final stages as Barcelona sought to hold on to their lead.
Match Summary
Despite temporary setbacks and playing away from their usual ground, Barcelona secured their tenth win in their last twelve matches at the Estadi Lluis Companys. The loss marked Real Sociedad’s sixth defeat in their last seven away outings in LaLiga.
Barcelona’s impressive record continues, boasting 27 victories in their last 28 home league encounters against Sociedad.
Flashscore Player of the Match: Alex Remiro (Real Sociedad)