Real Sociedad suffered a painful defeat in Rome against Lazio, which ended with a 3-1 scoreline and ruined their chances of advancing directly to the round of 16 of the Europa League. With a first half full of complications, which included an early goal from the Italians, an unsanctioned penalty and a sending-off that further compromised the chances of Imanol Alguacil's side, Real were unable to react to Lazio's strong push.
Lazio's Early Goal And Real Sociedad's Failed Reaction
The match began with a hard blow for the visitors when, after five minutes, Mario Gila took advantage of a poor clearance by the Real defense to open the scoring. Real, who had started the match with the intention of being competitive, quickly found themselves at a disadvantage.
However, instead of collapsing, San Sebastian showed a slight improvement. Sucic and Kubo had some dangerous approaches, but their shots were blocked by the rival defense. Despite the pressure, Real could not score, and the worst was yet to come.
Aihen's Expulsion and Lazio's Dominance
The turning point came in the 30th minute, when Aihen Muñoz received a second yellow card and was sent off. This left Real with 10 players and virtually no options to counter Lazio's dominance. The Italian team, with an extra man, soon extended their lead.
First it was Zaccagni who took advantage of a low cross to make it 2-0, and shortly after, Castellanos scored the third with a precise header. Real, already down to ten men, could not cope with Lazio's superiority and went to the break with the game practically settled.
After the break, Imanol Alguacil made tactical changes to try to give a more competitive image, but Lazio already had total control of the match. Despite a few isolated counterattacking attempts, such as Barrenetxea's late consolation goal, Real were unable to trouble their opponents. Lazio, with their total domination of possession and without the need to push the pace too much, closed the match with a clear 3-1.
This defeat left Real Sociedad with the obligation of playing a playoff before the final rounds, as the first place in the group was already sealed by Lazio. Direct qualification to the round of 16 vanished for the San Sebastian side, who will have to beat PAOK of Greece on the last matchday to ensure their qualification to the next stage of the Europa League.
Matchday 7 of the #EuropaLeague comes with everything 🔥.
Are you going for this combo? Predict the total goals or both score - you choose how to win!
Play now! ➡ https://t.co/HCS0draMpV pic.twitter.com/zYAAm1Pz23
- Betcris (@Betcris) January 23, 2025
A Bitter Result and a Difficult Mission Ahead
Despite early efforts and some moments of brilliance, Real Sociedad could not keep up the pace against a Lazio side that showed why they are one of the most solid teams in the competition. With Aihen's sending off and the difference in quality of play, the Spanish team was clearly outplayed, leaving a bitter taste to the expedition to Rome.
Real will now have to focus on the game against PAOK, a key match that will give them one last chance to continue fighting for their place in the Europa League. It is possible to see some changes on the bench, with the coach looking for alternatives in order to get the result they need if they really want to remain a good representation in the European competition.
