Best Odds: 1/2
Bookmaker:
In what is a real derby showdown on Saturday night, Real Sociedad will welcome Athletic Bilbao to the Anoeta Stadium.
Real Sociedad
Starting with the hosts, while Real Sociedad might have marked their return from September’s international break with a 2-1 loss at the hands of Real Madrid, Imanol Alguacil’s side have come roaring back. Last seen earlier in the week putting in an eye-catching performance as they landed a 1-0 win away at Valencia, the Royal have their sights firmly set on mounting another top-four charge this time around. Opening their Champions League adventure with a 1-1 draw against Italian giants Inter Milan on September 20th, Sociedad have lost just one of their first eight appearances across all formats. Laying down a marker last weekend as they claimed a rollercoaster 4-3 win against Getafe, Saturday’s hosts have also continued to shine on home soil. In fact, Alguacil’s men have not suffered a single La Liga defeat at the Anoeta Stadium since way back on February 5th.
Team News
Still dealing with a long-term knee injury and yet to make a single La Liga appearance so far this season, Real Sociedad will once again be without 28-year-old Martin Merquelanz here. Alguacil’s side are also still sweating over the availability of summer arrival Arsen Zakharyan.
Handed a full rest against Valencia earlier in the week, Japan international Takefusa Kubo should be handed a full return on Saturday night. Likewise, Spain international Robin Le Normand will return and partner Igor Zubeldia at the back.
Athletic Bilbao
As for the visitors, while Athletic Bilbao might have been disappointed after eventually having to settle for a 2-2 draw against Getafe earlier in the week, the mood around San Mames should still be at a real high. Despite missing out on booking a European return last season, Ernesto Valverde’s side have impressed many since opening up the 2023/24 campaign. Marking their return from September’s international break with a thumping performance as they cruised their way to a 3-0 romp at home against Cadiz, the one-time Barcelona boss finds his side in the midst of a six-match unbeaten run. Likewise, signing off August with an action-packed 4-2 victory against Real Betis, Bilbao will travel across Basque Country riding a recent wave of momentum. Likewise, landing a 2-0 win when they last met their bitter local rivals back on April 15th, the Lions will be seeking a repeat display here.
Team News
Shown a straight red card against Getafe earlier in the week, Athletic Bilbao will be unable to call upon the suspended Oihan Sancet on Saturday night. Still dealing with a long-term knee injury, 24-year-old Peru Nolaskoain still remains on the sidelines.
Once again finding the net a few days ago and now bagging three strikes in as many appearances, attacking talisman Inaki Williams will spearhead Bilbao’s charge this weekend. Spanish international shot-stopper Unai Simon will start between the sticks.
Key Factors to Consider
