Sabasports Match Preview
Europa League: Real Sociedad vs Anderlecht
Kickoff Time: 2024-10-04 00:45(HKT)
Source:REUTERS/Vincent West
Real Sociedad achieved a convincing 3-0 victory against Valencia at home in last weekend’s league match, ending a six-match win-less streak across all competitions. Currently, Real Sociedad sits in 14th place on the league table with a record of two wins, two draws, and four losses, which is below expectations. This summer, while they successfully retained their core midfielder Martin Zubimendi, they lost two key players, Mikel Merino and Robin Le Normand. Fortunately, Real Sociedad still has Japanese winger Takefusa Kubo, who is the most threatening player in the team’s attack. This season, Real Sociedad has continued with their usual tactical approach, but as the pace of the game has quickened, they have inevitably made more mistakes. Additionally, the grueling schedule of playing every three days has left the team feeling fatigued, which has severely impacted the performance and results.
Anderlecht drew 1-1 away against FCV Dender EH in last weekend’s league match, and the team has only managed one win, four draws, and one loss in the last six matches, showing a rather dismal performance. As a traditional powerhouse in Belgian football, Anderlecht demonstrated considerable competitiveness last season, although they ultimately failed to win the championship. Their performances on both ends of the pitch left a strong impression. Notably, Anderlecht has a decent scoring ability in attack, especially in set pieces and wing play, with their tactical execution being quite effective. However, there are several issues in Anderlecht’s defense, particularly in terms of coordination when facing quick counterattacks. Moreover, their away performance has been average, as they have failed to win their last two away matches.
The gap in strength between the two teams is quite evident on paper, with Real Sociedad clearly being superior to Anderlecht. Additionally, Real Sociedad’s recent victory indicates an improvement in their form. With this match being played at home, the outstanding Real Sociedad is undoubtedly more worthy of support.
Real Sociedad’s Last 5 Games: WDDLL
24-09-29 Real Sociedad 3-0 Valencia
24-09-26 Nice 1-1 Real Sociedad
24-09-21 Real Valladolid 0-0 Real Sociedad
24-09-18 Mallorca 1-0 Real Sociedad
24-09-15 Real Sociedad 0-2 Real Madrid
Anderlecht’s Last 5 Games: DWDLD
24-09-29 FCV Dender EH 1-1 Anderlecht
24-09-26 Anderlecht 2-1 Ferencvaros
24-09-22 Anderlecht 0-0 Sporting Charleroi
24-09-18 Anderlecht 0-2 Genk
24-09-15 Anderlecht 2-2 Westerlo
Head To Head Record:
None
Prediction: Real Sociedad to win