Real Sociedad host Hearts in Europa Cup return leg with last-16 spot at stake | OneFootball

Real Sociedad host Heart of Midlothian at Zubieta at 19.00 in the Europa Cup round of 32, the tie 0-0. Victory would take La Real into the last 16 of European competition for the first time.

According to Diario Vasco, Gorka Álvarez stressed the need to take chances to progress. La Real have not won since 31 May, when they beat Atlético de Madrid 2-0, and missed a stoppage-time penalty through Nerea Eizagirre in the first leg.

Injury status is unchanged since the Real Madrid match, and under-20 world champion Alazne Estensoro returns to the squad, a timely lift for the group.

Hearts are bold and rarely sit deep even without the ball. Álvarez felt his side created enough in Scotland but wants sharper ideas in the final third while staying tight at the back.

The coach continues to use the academy, with Isasisasmendi and Soroa helping manage minutes after Chacón’s injury. Possible XI: Arrula; Laborde, Aparicio, Florentino, Moraza; Fernández, Cahynová, Campo; Cecilia, Egiguren, Marín.

Cecilia Marcos, 24, arrives in form after a brace against Real Madrid, noting her surge contrasts with the team’s run and vowing to keep contributing.

To aid attendance, bus line BU15 runs hourly from Donostia to Zubieta, stopping at Anoeta, with the last return at 22.08. Álvarez urged home backing to help turn the early-season wobble.

Source: Diario Vasco

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