Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid Preview, Lineup & Telecast Details | LaLiga 2025-26

Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid Preview, Lineup & Telecast Details | LaLiga 2025-26

Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid Match Overview

The matchup Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid this season is one of high stakes even in the early rounds of La Liga. Real Madrid are riding high, having started the 2025–26 campaign with a perfect record under new manager Xabi Alonso. Meanwhile, Real Sociedad are still seeking their first win in the league and hoping to end a shaky run of form. The tension is compounded by the contrast in momentum: Los Blancos (Real Madrid) are confident and stable, whereas Sociedad are under pressure to rediscover both belief and results. The match takes place at the Reale Arena in San Sebastián, where the home advantage could play a role, but Madrid's consistency makes them overwhelming favorites.

Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid Match Timing

  • Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025
  • Venue: Reale Arena, San Sebastián, Spain
  • Kick-off Time: 15:15 BST (UK) / 10:15 a.m. ET / 07:15 a.m. PT
  • Referee: Jesús Gil Manzano

Timing considerations: Real Madrid have just come off a two-week international break. Some players—especially South American internationals—may be fatigued or arriving late. Real Sociedad have been playing all along but without much success.

Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid Head-to-Head Records

  • Real Madrid have enjoyed a recent edge over Sociedad. In their last six meetings, Madrid remain unbeaten.
  • The most recent encounter (May 24, 2025) ended in a 2-0 win for Real Madrid.
  • Draws have occurred, but Madrid tend to dominate both in scorelines and match control, particularly away. Meanwhile, Sociedad have struggled to score consistently when facing Madrid.

Players to Watch

Real Sociedad

  • Mikel Oyarzabal: As captain and one of their creative leaders, much of Sociedad’s attacking threat depends on him stepping up. He has also made an impact during international duty.
  • Takefusa Kubo: Speed, dribbling, and chance creation: he’ll have to be dangerous on the flank to unsettle Madrid’s defence.
  • Álex Remiro: In goal, facing a Madrid attack with multiple threats, his saves might be crucial to keep Sociedad in the game.

Real Madrid

  • Kylian Mbappé: Expected to lead the line. Against a defense that has had its vulnerabilities, his pace and finishing could tip the balance.
  • Vinícius Júnior & Rodrygo: The wingers capable of stretching play, creating overloads, and exploiting spaces. Madrid’s wide play will be important.
  • Midfield (Cam-bed / Tchouaméni etc): Even with some injuries, those present must provide control and defensive cover. Madrid’s depth will be tested.

Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid Lineups

Real Sociedad (likely 4-3-3):

  • Goalkeeper: Álex Remiro
  • Defence: Aramburu; Zubeldia; Ćaleta-Car; Muñoz
  • Midfield: Jon Gorrotxategi; Marín; Méndez
  • Attack: Kubo; Oyarzabal; Barrenetxea
  • Injuries/Absences: Orri Óskarsson, Yangel Herrera

Real Madrid (likely 4-3-3):

  • Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois
  • Defence: Right-back (Alexander-Arnold or Carvajal); Militão; Dean Huijsen; Carreras
  • Midfield: Valverde; Tchouaméni; Arda Güler (or another rotated option)
  • Attack: Mbappé up front; Vinícius Junior; Rodrygo / Mastantuono / Brahim Díaz
  • Missing: Jude Bellingham; Endrick; Ferland Mendy; Camavinga

“Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid” Match Predictions

Given the form, injuries, and head-to-head trends, here are some predictions:

  • Score Prediction: Real Madrid to edge it. Possible result: Real Sociedad 1-2 Real Madrid.
  • Goals: Madrid likely to score one early, Sociedad may push back, especially in the second half. Expect Madrid’s wide attackers and Mbappé to create decisive moments.
  • Key Dynamics: Madrid’s defensive solidity will be tested; Sociedad must avoid individual errors, especially in their own half. Madrid's depth and rotation could give them freshness especially late.
  • Outcome: Real Madrid wins; Sociedad struggles to get their first league win, but could make it tight or score at home.

“Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid” Telecast Details

Region Broadcasters / Streaming
Spain Movistar+, Amazon Prime Video, M+ LaLiga TV
United States ESPN Select, ESPN App, ESPN Deportes, FuboTV
Canada TSN+, Amazon Prime Video
United Kingdom & Ireland Premier Sports Player, Amazon Prime Video

Kick-off times by region:

  • UK / Ireland: 15:15 BST
  • East Coast (US): 10:15 a.m. ET
  • West Coast (US): 7:15 a.m. PT

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why has Real Sociedad struggled early this season?

Several reasons: injuries to key players (e.g. Yangel Herrera), departures (such as Martin Zubimendi), lack of consistency in attack, inability to convert chances, and possibly low confidence from previous underwhelming performances.

What are Madrid’s main strengths heading into this match?

Strong defensive record (only one goal conceded in their opening matches), excellent attacking options (Mbappé, Vinícius, Rodrygo), good depth in squad, and strong momentum. Also tactical flexibility under Alonso.

Any key absentees to note?

Yes. For Sociedad: Orri Óskarsson, Yangel Herrera. For Madrid: Jude Bellingham, Endrick, Ferland Mendy, Camavinga. These absences impact both rotational options and tactical balance.

How might Real Madrid rotate the squad given their schedule?

Alonso may rest fatigued players (especially international returnees like Valverde, Mastantuono). Some wingers (Rodrygo / Brahim Díaz) may be rotated. Also, right-back position may see a change depending on fitness of Alexander-Arnold vs Carvajal.

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