Real Sociedad 3-1 Elche: La Real End Poor Run with Commanding Victory

Real Sociedad snapped a disappointing streak of form with a convincing 3-1 victory over Elche at the Reale Arena, climbing back into the top half of La Liga with a performance that belied the statistics.

Despite managing just 33% possession and four shots to Elche’s six, La Real were clinical when it mattered. Luka Sucic opened the scoring on 24 minutes before being forced off through injury just five minutes later, casting an early shadow over the home side’s evening.

Oyarzabal Steps Up

Mikel Oyarzabal doubled the advantage seven minutes before the break, capitalising on Real Sociedad’s direct approach to extend their lead. The Basque side’s 1.09 expected goals figure suggested they were making the most of limited opportunities against an Elche side that dominated the ball but lacked cutting edge.

Andre Silva pulled one back for the visitors three minutes before half-time, offering hope of a comeback that their 67% possession arguably deserved. However, VAR denied Real Sociedad what appeared to be a third goal early in the second half, with Pablo Marín’s effort ruled out for offside.

Late Drama Seals Victory

As Elche pressed for an equaliser, making five substitutions to Real Sociedad’s four, spaces opened up for the hosts. Substitute Orri Oskarsson sealed the points with a late goal in the 89th minute, ensuring Real Sociedad moved up to ninth place with 28 points from 22 matches.

The victory ends a concerning run for Real Sociedad, whose DWWWD form had seen them slip down the table. For Elche, sitting 13th with 24 points, their LLDDL run continues despite showing plenty of endeavour in possession. Their expected goals figure of just 0.50 tells the story of another frustrating evening where territory failed to translate into clear chances.

ScoresFooty’s prediction of a 1-1 draw proved wide of the mark as Real Sociedad’s clinical finishing made the difference on home soil.