Real Sociedad faces Osasuna in a derby showdown, with a spot in the Copa del Rey semi-finals on the line.
Real Sociedad will host Osasuna at their Anoeta stadium this Thursday at 7:30 PM, battling for a coveted spot in the Copa del Rey semi-finals.
This match is crucial for Real Sociedad’s season. Sitting 11th in La Liga, the team is hoping a strong Copa del Rey run can salvage their campaign, with a tournament win securing European competition for next season. With so much at stake, the atmosphere at Anoeta is expected to be electric.
The Gipuzkoans have struggled compared to previous seasons, facing difficulties both in results and performance quality. Consistency has been a major issue, and they’ve found it hard to string together positive results. Just this past Sunday, they suffered a defeat on their home turf to a team they’ll face again in the Copa on Thursday. After these setbacks, coach Imanol Alguacil’s future has been questioned.
Offensive and defensive issues have plagued the team. Despite a busy summer transfer window, Real Sociedad has yet to solve their ongoing problem with finishing chances in front of goal. Alguacil is still experimenting with strategies to break down opponents’ defenses. One possible solution could be giving more minutes to Icelandic striker Orri Oskarsson, who has scored three goals in his last two appearances. Defensively, the team has shown vulnerabilities that need addressing.
In short, Mikel Oyarzabal and the squad will need to be at their best if they hope to reach the semi-finals.
On the other hand, Osasuna has nothing to lose. Eager to keep their cup run alive, Los Rojillos—who reached the final two years ago—are known for being tough competition in this tournament and will go all-in. With confidence from their recent league performances, they’ll carry a psychological edge after their last meeting with Real Sociedad ended in a win. Osasuna will also be boosted by the return of striker Bryan Zaragoza, who, along with Ante Budimir, forms a formidable attacking duo.
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