Match Preview

Real Madrid hit the road for the first time after the season pause when they make the trip to the Anoeta on Sunday.

These two clubs met back in November where Real took a 3-1 victory at the Bernabéu. They also played in the Copa del Rey in February, where Los Blancos were eliminated from the competition after a 4-3 loss.

This is a big chance for Real Madrid to match Barcelona on points for the league lead. Barcelona took a draw against Sevilla on Friday, needless to say Real need these three points from away.

This is also another chance for Real to see loanee Martin Ødegaard, who is having a great season.

Injuries/Suspensions

Real Madrid are still without Lucas Vazquez, Nacho and Isco. Mariano returns to the lineup after missing the first two return matches.

Sociedad will likely be without Ander Barrenetxea, Luca Sangalli and Ander Guevara due to injuries. Illarra is likely out for the season. Joseba Zaldúa will also miss with suspension.

Potential XIs

Real Sociedad

Remiro; Golosabel, Elustondo, Llorente, Monreal; Ødegaard, Zubeldia, Merino, Oyarzabal; Portu, Willian José

Real Madrid

Courtois; Carvajal, Varane, Ramos, Mendy; Modric, Casemiro, Kroos; Rodrygo, Hazard, Benzema

Zidane once again has to make a decision at left back between Ferland Mendy and Marcelo after Mendy started against Valencia.

The right wing also remains a question since Real have not yet found a reliable starter for every match. He started Valverde here on Thursday, he could go back to starting Rodrygo or even give Bale his first start.

Prediction

Real Sociedad—Real Madrid 1-3

Real Madrid find themselves in a true must-win situation with Barcelona dropping two points already. Too many times has Real dropped points as well when they have a chance to go level.

La Real have not been in good form since the season return. They’ve drawn and lost and Los Blancos need to capitalize on this. Sociedad are still a 6th place team that are more than capable of getting back in their good season form they held prior to the break,

Alexander Isak is one to watch, depending on if he starts or subs, as he is having a great season. Of course for Real fans, all eyes will be on Martin Ødegaard.

Karim Benzema will be looked towards again for a big match after he scored a brace against Valencia. Real have been able to score 3 goals in each match since the return and this should hopefully continue to get them the much needed three points.