La Liga Clash: Can Espanyol Upset Real Sociedad?
Espanyol will be hoping to secure their first victory of the new La Liga season when they host Real Sociedad at the RCDE Stadium on Saturday. Both teams are looking to bounce back from opening-day defeats, but only one can claim the spoils in this crucial encounter.
Espanyol's Homecoming
Espanyol returned to the top flight last season after a two-year hiatus in the Segunda Division. Their promotion campaign was a resounding success, culminating in a playoff victory over Oviedo. The Catalan club have strengthened their squad this summer, with six new faces joining their ranks. However, the departure of Martin Braithwaite, who scored 22 goals last season, is a significant blow.
Despite a promising start to the campaign, Espanyol fell to a disappointing 1-0 loss against Real Valladolid in their opening fixture. Pressure will be on manager Manolo Gonzalez to inspire his side to a much-needed win at home.
Real Sociedad's High Expectations
Real Sociedad finished sixth in La Liga last season, securing a place in the Europa League. Despite losing key players like Mikel Merino, who is on the verge of joining Arsenal, and Robin Le Normand, who has moved to Atletico Madrid, the Basque club still harbour aspirations of challenging for a top-six finish.
Their season opener against Rayo Vallecano ended in a disappointing 2-1 defeat, despite a late goal from Euro 2024 winner Martin Zubimendi. With a new season underway, Imanol Alguacil's side will be eager to demonstrate their quality and show they are ready to compete for a place in the top echelon of Spanish football.
Team News
Espanyol will be without the services of midfielder Edu Exposito, who is sidelined with a ligament injury. However, manager Gonzalez is expected to make changes to his starting XI, potentially bringing in Alex Kral and Alvaro Aguado to bolster the midfield. Javi Puado, who scored 16 goals last season, will spearhead the attack, while loanee Alejo Veliz is likely to feature from the start.
Real Sociedad are expected to welcome back Zubimendi after his substitute appearance against Rayo Vallecano. Ander Barrenetxea is also tipped to start, with manager Alguacil likely to make a few adjustments to his side. However, he will be without Alvaro Odriozola, Igor Zubeldia, and Arsen Zakharyan due to injuries, with Merinoâs imminent departure further weakening the team.
Prediction
This match promises to be a tightly contested affair. Both teams are eager to prove themselves after disappointing starts to the season. Espanyol will be buoyed by home advantage, while Real Sociedad possess a wealth of experience and quality within their squad.
We anticipate a close game with the visitors narrowly edging out the hosts. Real Sociedad's experience and ability to capitalise on opportunities could be decisive, leading to a 1-2 victory.
The Verdict: Espanyol 1-2 Real Sociedad.
