The 2025-26 La Liga season is heating up quickly, and this Saturday brings an intriguing clash as Real Madrid travel to San Sebastián to face Real Sociedad at the Anoeta Stadium (Real Arena). For Madrid, it’s about extending their perfect start to four consecutive wins, while Sociedad will be desperate to halt their poor form and climb the table.
Match Details
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Fixture: Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid
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Competition: Spanish La Liga – Matchday 4
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Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025
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Kick-off: Afternoon (local time)
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Venue: Anoeta Stadium (Real Arena), San Sebastián
Real Madrid’s Flying Start
Los Blancos have begun the new La Liga season in dominant fashion, collecting all nine points from their first three matches. The attack has been fluid, the midfield balanced, and the defense reliable.
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League Leaders: Madrid sits top of the La Liga table, setting the pace for rivals like Barcelona and Atlético Madrid.
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Momentum: A fourth win would not only keep them perfect but also send a clear signal of intent in the title race.
Key players like Jude Bellingham, VinÃcius Júnior, and Rodrygo Goes are already making headlines with their performances, and coach Carlo Ancelotti will expect nothing less than another professional display.
Real Sociedad’s Struggles
In contrast, Real Sociedad are enduring a tough start. With just two points from three games, they sit 16th in the table, a position that does not reflect their potential or squad quality.
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Searching for Rhythm: Sociedad have drawn two and lost one of their opening matches, struggling to turn possession into goals.
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Key Players: Striker Mikel Oyarzabal will be crucial if they are to test Madrid’s defense, while midfielder Brais Méndez and Japanese star Takefusa Kubo must raise their level to inspire the team.
Facing Madrid at this stage is a huge test, but also a golden opportunity to turn their fortunes around.
Tactical Expectations
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Real Madrid will likely stick to their 4-3-1-2 system, with Bellingham operating behind VinÃcius and Rodrygo. The midfield trio of Tchouaméni, Valverde, and Camavinga provides control, dynamism, and pressing power.
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Real Sociedad will aim for a compact defensive setup, looking to frustrate Madrid and hit them on the counter through Kubo’s speed and Oyarzabal’s finishing.
The battle in midfield could define the game, as Sociedad attempt to disrupt Madrid’s rhythm.
The Anoeta Factor
The Real Arena (Anoeta Stadium) is always a tough ground for visiting teams. Sociedad’s fans create an energetic and passionate atmosphere that can rattle opponents. For Madrid, it will be about keeping calm and imposing their authority early to silence the crowd.
Head-to-Head Record
Historically, Real Madrid have enjoyed the upper hand over Sociedad, but matches between the two have often been competitive and unpredictable. Last season, Sociedad managed to frustrate Madrid with a draw, proving they can be stubborn opponents at home.
Predicted Key Battles
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VinÃcius Júnior vs Hamari Traoré – VinÃcius’ pace and trickery against Sociedad’s right-back could be decisive.
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Jude Bellingham vs Mikel Merino – A midfield duel between two physically strong and technically gifted players.
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Oyarzabal vs Rüdiger – Sociedad’s captain will try to find space against Madrid’s rock-solid defender.
What’s at Stake
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For Real Madrid: Securing a fourth straight win would cement their position at the top and build momentum before tougher fixtures arrive.
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For Real Sociedad: Avoiding defeat is crucial to restore confidence and prevent their season from spiraling into early crisis.
Prediction
While Sociedad will fight hard in front of their home crowd, Real Madrid’s form, confidence, and squad depth give them the upper hand. Expect a competitive contest, but Madrid may just have too much quality.
Predicted Score: Real Sociedad 1-3 Real Madrid
Conclusion
Saturday’s clash at the Anoeta promises intensity, passion, and high-quality football. Real Madrid aim to continue their flawless start, while Real Sociedad are determined to stop their decline and send a statement of their own. Whatever the outcome, this fixture has all the ingredients of a La Liga classic.
❓ FAQs
1. When is the Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid match?
The match will be played on Saturday, September 13, 2025, in the afternoon.
2. Where will the game take place?
It will be hosted at the Anoeta Stadium (Real Arena) in San Sebastián.
3. How has Real Madrid started the season?
Madrid are top of the table with three wins from three matches.
4. What is Real Sociedad’s current position?
Sociedad sit 16th in La Liga with just two points from their opening three games.
5. Who are the key players to watch?
For Madrid: VinÃcius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, and Rodrygo.
For Sociedad: Mikel Oyarzabal, Takefusa Kubo, and Brais Méndez.