San Sebastián spirit that has often lifted Real Sociedad against Barcelona | OneFootball

San Sebastián’s festivities have often brought out the best in Real Sociedad against Barcelona in Donostia. Some of the club’s most vivid memories of the fixture sit alongside the tamborradas.

Diario Vasco highlights that festival time has repeatedly coincided with standout performances. Across five league meetings in Donostia around 20 January, the record reads two wins, two draws and a single defeat, 48 years ago.

The first of these came on 23 January 1972 under Andoni Elizondo, a 2-2 draw that felt like a missed chance after late pressure.

On 22 January 1978, with Atocha heavy in midwinter, Barcelona profited from the conditions and a conservative plan to take the points.

The Dream Team’s farewell to Atocha on 24 January 1993 ended 2-2, Kodro levelling at the death after Stoichkov had restored the visitors’ lead.

A year later, Anoeta’s first Barcelona visit on 22 January brought a 2-1 home win, Kodro striking early then settling it after Laudrup’s reply, with Toshack’s side braver and quicker throughout.

On 19 January 2013, Vilanova’s team arrived after an opening half-season of 18 wins and one draw, and led 2-0 through Messi and Pedro by 25 minutes. Montanier’s false nine plan turned it, Chory Castro scored twice, Piqué was sent off and Agirretxe forced in the 91st-minute winner.

On Sunday, with San Sebastián’s drums warming up, Matarazzo’s Real face the league leaders at Anoeta seeking to extend this habit.

Source: Diario Vasco