Real Madrid Claims Top Spot with Decisive Win Over Real Sociedad
Real Madrid showcased a dominant performance, defeating Real Sociedad 4-1 and leaping to the top of the La Liga standings. Álvaro Arbeloa’s side now hold a two-point lead over Barcelona, who are set to face Girona on Monday.
Match Highlights & Key Moments
The match saw a flurry of action, with Real Madrid taking control early on. Gonzalo Garcia opened the scoring in the 5th minute, assisted by Trent Alexander-Arnold – marking Alexander-Arnold’s first assist in over two months. Sociedad responded with a penalty converted by Mikel Oyarzabal in the 16th minute, but Real Madrid quickly regained the lead.
Vinicius Junior proved to be a constant threat, converting two penalties (25th and 68th minute) and bringing his season goal tally to 10. Federico Valverde added to the scoreline with a stunning strike in the 31st minute, extending Real Madrid’s advantage.
First Half Action
- 5th Minute: Gonzalo Garcia scores, assisted by Trent Alexander-Arnold.
- 16th Minute: Mikel Oyarzabal equalizes from a penalty.
- 25th Minute: Vinicius Junior scores from a penalty.
- 31st Minute: Federico Valverde extends Real Madrid’s lead.
Second Half Summary
The second half saw Real Madrid maintain their dominance, with Vinicius Junior securing his brace from the penalty spot. Despite Sociedad’s attempts to fight back, Thibaut Courtois delivered crucial saves, denying Jon Martin and Carlos Soler. The game was effectively sealed by halftime, with Real Madrid displaying composure and control throughout the remainder of the match.
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Impact
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s performance was particularly noteworthy, consistently stretching Real Sociedad’s defense with his long-range passing and creating attacking opportunities. This was his first start in over two months following a thigh injury, and he made an immediate impact with an assist.
Looking Ahead
Real Madrid will carry this momentum into their Champions League knockout tie against Benfica on Tuesday. Real Sociedad, meanwhile, will look to rebound when they face Real Oviedo in La Liga on Saturday.
Match Details
Real Madrid: Arbeloa (4-4-2)
Real Sociedad: Matarazzo (4-2-3-1)
Source: BBC Sport
