Real Sociedad vs Villarreal
La Liga
Friday
23rd February 2024
Reale Seguros Stadium
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the La Liga fixture between Real Sociedad and Villarreal.
Real Sociedad vs Villarreal: Preview
Real Sociedad form analysis
Txuri-Urdin’s recent run of five LaLiga matches has shown an inability to consistently create chances and convert them. They opened this period with a gritty 1-0 away win at Celta Vigo thanks to an early Brais Méndez goal before back-to-back goalless draws against mid-table Rayo Vallecano and strugglers Girona. Against Girona, La Real dominated possession but lacked cutting edge against the deep defensive block.
This flaw was punished in their next match – a disappointing 1-0 home loss to Champions League chasing Osasuna after Ante Budimir’s second half winner. However, Real Sociedad showed character to bounce back with a vital last gasp 2-1 away victory over relegation threatened Mallorca. Takefusa Kubo equalized in the first half before captain Mikel Merino popped up with an injury time header to steal the three points. So while Real Sociedad’s results have been inconsistent, greater efficiency in attack is required from a side with top four ambitions. Converting chances into goals will be key for them to close ground on the top four.
Villarreal form analysis
Villarreal’s recent run of five LaLiga matches has perfectly summarized a decent season. Firstly, an underwhelming 90th minute equalizer rescued a 1-1 home draw against relegation battlers Mallorca. However, Villarreal then produced their performance of the season – stunning Champions League chasers Barcelona 5-3 in a thriller. Despite trailing early on, a ruthless second half display including goals from substitutes Goncalo Guedes, Alexander Sorloth and Jose Luis Morales sealed the comeback win.
Back-to-back goalless draws followed though – first against struggling Cadiz and then away to Alaves, needing Jorge Cuenca’s second half equalizer to claim a point. Most recently at home, Nikola Maksimovic’s goal gave mid-table Getafe a half time lead before Alberto Moreno levelled soon after the restart to secure a 1-1 draw. So while clearly carrying a threat in attack, Villarreal have struggled for consistency at both ends all season long. Addressing these flaws will be vital in turning draws into wins during the run-in.
