Barcelona vs Real Sociedad: Match preview | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are preparing to take on Real Sociedad in their upcoming La Liga clash. For the Catalan giants, this is yet another big step towards retaining their top spot in the league. However, this particular opponent has already tested Barcelona to the limit this season.

The last time these two sides faced at the Reale Arena, it was Real Sociedad that came out on top back in November 2024. That particular game saw Barcelona struggle to play their usual brand of football against a side that was quite committed to restricting the Catalan giants.

This time around, however, Barcelona will have the advantage of welcoming Sociedad to their own home. At the Montjuic Stadium, with the Barça fans behind the team, there will be an added sense of motivation and encouragement for the team to do better.

Fortunately for the Catalan giants, this game will also see Lamine Yamal likely be in the starting eleven unlike the last time these two sides met. With the squad completely outclassed by the opposition on that occasion, there will be an extra hunger for Barcelona to get their revenge this time.

In terms of form, moreover, Barcelona are still undefeated in 2025. From January till the end of February, La Blaugrana have not been defeated across any of the competitions that they are playing in. With a newfound mentality and spirit, Hansi Flick’s side is certainly not to be messed around with.

Moreover, with various players also finding their best versions this year, Flick has more than enough options to rely on. Across the last five games, Barça have managed four wins across all competitions and a 4-4 draw against Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey.

In total, they have scored 16 goals in the last five games and have conceded five goals in return. That balance showcases a side that is willing to concede in order to hit back even harder with more and more goals.

Sociedad, on the other hand, have not been as effective. While they do have three wins, they also have two losses to both Real Madrid and Real Betis. As for their goal difference, they have scored 10 goals in the last five games and have conceded 7.

Furthermore, heading into this game, the visitors will also be missing some key players due to injuries or suspensions. Takefusa Kubo and Nayef Aguerd, for instance, are suspended and injured respectively.

With such players missing, there is an added advantage that Barcelona simply cannot afford to let slip away. To stay at the top of the La Liga table, the Catalan side needs to ensure victory and the team will be fully aware of this.