Real Sociedad is gearing up to host CD Leganés this Sunday at the Reale Arena, marking the conclusion of La Liga's 25th round of matches. Kick off is scheduled for 3:00 PM ET, as both teams look to improve their standings.
Currently, Real Sociedad stands 11th on the league table with 31 points, having suffered significant setbacks with four losses in their last five matches. Their recent performance included a 3-0 defeat to Real Betis last weekend where they recorded only 31% possession and failed to register any shots on target. Despite their recent struggles, Sociedad did manage to secure an impressive 5-2 victory over Danish side FC Midtjylland in the UEFA Europa League midweek. Brais Méndez and Luka Sučić led the charge with standout performances, and Mikel Oyarzabal was also on the scoresheet.
Real Sociedad’s goalscoring this season has been inconsistent. They have netted only 20 goals, ranking among the lowest, with both Oyarzabal and Kubo contributing just four goals each. Defensive concerns also arise from having conceded 23 goals so far.
On the other hand, CD Leganés, nicknamed 'Los Pepineros', are currently situated 16th, precariously sitting just above the relegation zone. They have found some form after going winless for several matches, drawing 3-3 against Deportivo Alavés last weekend. Daniel Raba's two penalties and Munir El Haddadi's late equalizer underscored their efforts. Yet, inconsistency looms, as they have been unable to secure more than one win away from home this season.
Leganés has struggled overall, boasting only 22 goals this season with Juan Cruz leading the attack on four goals. Their defensive record also stands frail with 35 goals conceded. Recent away games showed improvement, earning points from top clubs, but they need to convert draws to wins to secure their safety above relegation.
Historically, this matchup has favored Real Sociedad, having won five out of their ten encounters across competitions, including their last fixture which ended 3-0 to the Basques. Both teams aim for victory as they face off again.
The predicted lineups suggest Sociedad will take the field without key players Igor Zubeldia and Sheraldo Becker, who are out due to suspensions. Other injuries plague their roster, making their squad a bit thin as they confront Leganés.
Leganés also has its share of injury woes, most significantly losing Munir to suspension after his red card last week. Borna Barišić and Enric Franquesa's long-term injuries mean they will not make the trip to San Sebastián. The remaining squad will need to be at their best to clinch any points.
Looking at match statistics, the odds present Real Sociedad as clear favorites with their recent home form being remarkably good, winning four of their last five games at home. They average 1.4 goals conceded at home compared to Leganés’ away record.
While recent form suggests Sociedad is more likely to grab the win, Leganés can sometimes deliver surprising results on their day. Betting options for the match include wagers on over 2.5 total goals, as five of their last six meetings have ended with more than two goals. Draw bettors might find Leganés +1 on the Asian Handicap appealing since Sociedad is still finding form.
The expectations from this match suggest Real Sociedad will look to capitalize on their home advantage and reclaim some much-needed confidence. Predictions point to Sociedad edging out Leganés by two goals, possibly upturning their recent dismal league form.