Celta de Vigo secured a much-needed victory over Real Sociedad, winning 2-0 at their home ground, Balaídos. This match not only marked a significant moment for Celta, allowing them to breathe easier as they look to escape the relegation zone, but it also dealt a blow to Real Sociedad’s ambitions of securing European football for the next season.
The game kicked off with both teams eager for points, yet it was Celta who found their rhythm first. Key to their performance was young star Pablo Durán, who scored both goals within the first half to put his team firmly in control. This was particularly satisfying for Celta fans, as it was the first time under the management of Claudio Giráldez they could defeat Imanol Alguacil’s side, which had previously ended six consecutive home victories for Celta.
Durán's first goal came at the 40-minute mark, when he executed a powerful long-range shot. The young player demonstrated both skill and composure as he connected perfectly after receiving the ball at the edge of the box. Real Sociedad's goalkeeper, Álex Remiro, stretched to touch the ball, but it collided with the post and eventually found its way to the back of the net. Just moments later, right on the stroke of halftime, Durán struck again, finishing off a blocked effort from teammate Alfon González, making it 2-0.
The home crowd erupted with joy as Celta took control of the match at just the right moment, leaving Real Sociedad reeling as they sought to regroup during the break. The second half began with Durán almost completing his hat-trick; his goal was perilously close but was ruled out due to offside, dampening what would have been an electrifying moment.
Throughout the second half, Celta remained resilient. They defended well, maintaining possession and building attacks carefully. Although Real Sociedad improved slightly after the interval, they struggled to create clear-cut opportunities to test Celta's defense or goalkeeper. Celta’s defense held firm, with Guaita remaining relatively unchallenged, reflecting the visiting team's difficulties. Celta's strategy of high pressing meant they consistently forced their opponents to clear the ball, unable to build any momentum.
This match underlined the growing confidence of Celta de Vigo as they recorded their sixth home win this season, accumulating 20 points out of 24 possible at Balaídos. The heavy defeats had seemed to evaporate, leaving Giráldez cautiously optimistic about the future. The victory reinforced Celta's position away from the bottom of the table, providing invaluable footing as they head toward the New Year.
For Real Sociedad, the defeat was particularly disappointing, coming after their recent draws. The txuri-urdin seemed unable to find their rhythm or conjure the sharpness needed to break down Celta’s organized defense. Their performance has raised questions about team structure and execution, as they failed to create chances against Celta's steadfast play. Manager Imanol Alguacil may have to reassess strategies going forward to avoid slipping out of contention for European spots.
Looking back at the match, it was clear Celta de Vigo's tactical game plan was effective against Real Sociedad’s attempts to play their usual 4-3-3 system. Mental fortitude and physical presence were key for Celta, allowing them to capitalize on their chances and weather the storm when necessary.
The stage is now set for Celta as they aim to build on this victory, demonstrating resilience and determination on the pitch. Meanwhile, Real Sociedad must regroup and address their struggles, as there is still much to play for as the season continues.
