On May 3, 2025, Real Sociedad finally broke their long winless streak with a commanding 3-0 victory over Espanyol at the Ciudad Deportiva Dani Jarque. The match marked a significant turnaround for the txuri-urdin, who had not tasted victory in 12 consecutive matches, dating back to their last win against Madrid on February 1, 2025.
The game kicked off in dramatic fashion, with Amaiur Sarriegi putting Real Sociedad ahead just 50 seconds into the match. Taking advantage of a defensive lapse from Espanyol, Sarriegi fired a powerful left-footed shot that found the back of the net, sending the visiting fans into a frenzy and leaving Espanyol stunned (0-1, 1').
Despite the early setback, the home side attempted to regain their composure. However, they struggled to maintain possession and create meaningful chances, as Real Sociedad continued to apply pressure. In the fourth minute, Cecilia Marcos nearly doubled the lead, but her shot hit the post, a sign of the txuri-urdin's dominance in the early stages of the match.
Espanyol, under the guidance of coach Sara Monforte, made tactical adjustments but found it difficult to break through Real Sociedad's solid defense. The blanquiazules managed some attempts on goal, with Ainoa Campo and Mar Torras trying to create opportunities, yet they were unable to find the equalizer.
As the first half progressed, Real Sociedad maintained control, with Sarriegi and Marcos leading the charge. The visitors created several clear chances, and it was evident that they were the more dangerous side. Espanyol's goalkeeper, Mar Segarra, was forced into action multiple times, including a spectacular save to deny a second goal from the relentless Real Sociedad attack.
After the halftime break, Monforte made changes to her lineup, bringing on Iara Lacosta and Carol Marín to inject fresh energy into the squad. The adjustments seemed to spark a brief resurgence from Espanyol, who began the second half with more attacking intent. However, their hopes were quickly dashed when Sanni Franssi scored Real Sociedad's second goal in the 57th minute. After a well-placed cross from Cecilia, Franssi volleyed the ball home from the second post, leaving Segarra with no chance to stop it (0-2, 57').
With a two-goal deficit, Espanyol was left with little choice but to push forward in search of a goal. They created a few opportunities, but the Real Sociedad defense, anchored by a solid performance from Júlia Guerra, held firm. Guerra's efforts were crucial in preventing any further damage as Espanyol searched for a way back into the match.
As the game neared its conclusion, Real Sociedad sealed the victory with a third goal from Nerea Eizagirre in the 81st minute. Eizagirre, who had come on as a substitute, finished a swift counter-attack with a composed finish past Segarra, bringing the score to 0-3 and effectively ending any hopes for a comeback from Espanyol.
Despite the loss, Espanyol remains close to securing their place in Liga F, needing just a point from their next match against Athletic Club to confirm their survival. The defeat was a harsh reminder of the challenges they face, particularly against a resurgent Real Sociedad side that has finally found their form.
The match saw two yellow cards issued, with Klára Cahynová receiving one in the 34th minute and Laia Ballesté in the 92nd minute, highlighting the intensity of the encounter. The game was officiated by Alicia Espinosa Ríos before a crowd of approximately 468 spectators, who witnessed an important victory for Real Sociedad.
In the aftermath of the match, the atmosphere was one of relief for Real Sociedad, who celebrated a long-awaited win that could reignite their season. Coach Sánchez Vera expressed his satisfaction, noting the team's improved performance and resilience after a difficult stretch.
As for Espanyol, they will need to regroup quickly and focus on their upcoming fixtures, particularly the crucial clash against Athletic Club, where they will seek to secure their place in the league and avoid the relegation battle.
