SAN SEBASTIAN: ThrillerReal Sociedad claimed a pulsating 2-1 home victory over LaLiga leaders Barcelona on Sunday, bringing the Catalans’ 11-match winning streak in all competitions to an end in a rain-soaked encounter at San Sebastian.
The hosts struck first in the 32nd minute when Mikel Oyarzabal volleyed home to cap a lively opening half that saw both sides trade chances. Barcelona thought they had taken an early lead through Fermin Lopez, but VAR ruled the effort out after a foul on Takefusa Kubo in the build-up.
Barcelona piled on the pressure after the break, striking the woodwork five times as goalkeeper Alex Remiro produced a string of fine saves. Their persistence finally paid off in the 70th minute when Marcus Rashford headed in from close range to level the scores.
But Sociedad responded immediately. Just a minute later, Goncalo Guedes restored the home side’s lead with a crisp volley from inside the box, igniting the crowd. The drama continued late on as Sociedad were reduced to 10 men after Carlos Soler received a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Pedri.
Despite the defeat, Hansi Flick’s Barcelona remain top of the table on 49 points, one ahead of Real Madrid, with Villarreal and Atletico Madrid trailing on 41. “We played very well and created a lot,” Barca captain Frenkie de Jong said. “But you have to take your chances, and their keeper had a great game.”
