- Fixture: Real Madrid vs Real Sociedad
- Date: Saturday, 24 May 2025
- Venue: Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid
Match Preview
The final day of the La Liga season brings extra drama to the Santiago Bernabéu as Real Madrid host Real Sociedad in Carlo Ancelotti’s last match in charge. The legendary Italian manager, who has guided Madrid through a memorable era, will bid farewell in front of a packed home crowd. The stakes are high for both sides: Real Madrid are eager to finish the campaign on a high note, while Real Sociedad look to end their season with a statement result against one of Spain’s giants.
Recent form for Real Madrid has been a rollercoaster. They’ve picked up key wins, such as a 2-1 victory over Mallorca and a 3-2 triumph against Celta Vigo, but also suffered a dramatic 3-4 loss to Barcelona in El Clásico. Despite these ups and downs, Madrid remain a formidable force at home, boasting an impressive run of scoring at least twice in each of their last five matches at the Bernabéu. However, their squad is stretched thin: Vinícius Júnior, Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, David Alaba, Ferland Mendy, Eduardo Camavinga, and Lucas Vázquez are all sidelined with injuries, and Aurélien Tchouaméni is suspended for this match.
Real Sociedad enter the fixture after a challenging run, occupying mid-table with inconsistent results. Their last six games include three defeats, notably a 0-4 loss to Atlético Madrid and a narrow 0-1 defeat to Athletic Club – although they did beat Girona 3-2 last weekend. Sociedad have struggled for goals, averaging just under one per game, and have failed to find the net in nearly half their matches this season. Their injury list is significant as well, with Mikel Oyarzabal, Take Kubo, and Igor Zubeldia all having been out, though all remain part of the possible squad for Saturday. The Basque side will need to dig deep, especially given their underwhelming away form and reduced attacking options.
With both squads missing key players, the tactical battle will be intriguing. Ancelotti is expected to lean heavily on the firepower of Kylian Mbappé, the creativity of Jude Bellingham, and the flair of Rodrygo, who will be tasked with leading the line in Vinícius Júnior’s absence. For Real Sociedad, extra responsibility will be placed on the likes of captain Igor Zubeldia and goalkeeper Álex Remiro, who will be vital in keeping Madrid’s attack at bay. Both teams are likely to be cautious, but Madrid’s depth and quality, even with injuries, give them the edge.
The historical record favors Real Madrid, who have dominated this fixture at home and have scored in each of their last 22 matches at the Bernabéu. With the emotion of Ancelotti’s farewell and the desire to finish strong, Madrid are expected to control possession and create the majority of chances. Sociedad’s depleted attack may struggle to break down Madrid, even with the hosts’ makeshift defense. Expect a competitive first half before Madrid’s quality shines through.
Key Players
Real Madrid:
- Kylian Mbappé: Madrid’s main attacking threat, in outstanding form.
- Jude Bellingham: The English midfielder’s creativity and late runs into the box have been crucial all season.
- Rodrygo: With more responsibility due to injuries, his pace and dribbling will be key.
Real Sociedad:
- Álex Remiro: The goalkeeper will be under pressure and must produce a top performance.
- Igor Zubeldia: With injuries to attacking stars, the captain’s leadership and defensive work will be vital.
Prediction
Despite a lengthy injury list, Real Madrid’s superior home form and attacking talent should see them through. Real Sociedad’s own injury woes and lack of firepower make an upset unlikely. Expect an emotional send-off for Ancelotti with Madrid taking the points.
Predicted Score: Real Madrid 2-0 Real Sociedad
