Barcelona comes into the match with notable confidence, having recently secured a 2-1 win against Newcastle United in the Champions League, highlighted by Marcus Rashford’s two goals.
The team also recorded a come-from-behind 3-1 victory over Oviedo on Thursday. Highlights from the game can be viewed on Barcelona’s official X handle below:
This performance not only strengthened their position in Europe but also extended an impressive streak of 41 consecutive games with goals. Under Flick, the team has reclaimed its attacking prowess, averaging nearly three goals per match and becoming a formidable offensive force in Europe.
However, Barcelona is currently adjusting to temporary arrangements at home. With ongoing renovations at Camp Nou for safety, they are playing at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys in Montjuïc. Although this venue provides improved capacity and facilities compared to the smaller Estadi Johan Cruyff, it lacks the intimidating atmosphere of their traditional home, which could benefit visiting teams.
Conversely, Real Sociedad enters the match with troubling form. They sit 18th in the La Liga table after suffering a 3-1 defeat to Real Betis, earning only two points in their first six games.
After the international break, they faced a 2-1 defeat against Real Madrid, marking a significant setback for Coach Francisco.
Defensive struggles are evident, with 14 goals conceded over their last eight matches and no clean sheet in nine consecutive games. Coach Sergio Francisco must work on restoring balance to a disjointed team that has lost three straight matches. Yet, Sociedad does have offensive talent that can make an impact on counter-attacks, with Brais Méndez, who scored in their latest game, and Takefusa Kubo, known for his speed and creativity, being key players to watch against a Barcelona defense that occasionally makes errors.
Tactically, Barcelona is anticipated to gain the upper hand. Flick’s squad is likely to dominate possession with a midfield led by Pedri and Gavi, supported by Frenkie de Jong in a more defensive role. Rashford’s sharp strike rate, aided by Dani Olmo’s creativity, offers Barcelona a strong offensive threat, and Robert Lewandowski’s experience is invaluable during critical moments. However, injuries pose a concern as Raphinha and Garcia will miss Sunday’s match due to recent injuries.
For Sociedad to stand a chance, they will need to withstand Barcelona’s aggressive pressing and capitalize on fast breaks, though their defensive issues could hinder this strategy over a full match.
Ultimately, although Real Sociedad may find chances to challenge Barcelona, the disparity in form and overall quality is stark. Barcelona’s deeper attacking options, along with their sustained momentum in both domestic and European competition, clearly position them as favorites for this matchup.
Predicted lineups
Barcelona is expected to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation with García in goal, a defense featuring Martín, Christensen, Wojciech Szczesny, and Kounde, supported by midfielders de Jong and Pedri, as Rashford, Olmo, and Roony Bardghji lead the forward line, with Lewandowski as the main striker. Real Sociedad, on the other hand, is likely to employ a 4-3-3 formation with Remiro as goalkeeper; Gómez, Ćaleta-Car, Zubeldia, and Aramburu in defense; a midfield trio of Gorrotxategi, Marín, and Soler; with Barrenetxea, Oyarzabal, and Guedes forming their attacking front.
Softfootball predicted result
Barcelona 2-0 Real Sociedad
