Real Sociedad vs Barcelona – 2021/22 match preview, predicted lineups
Barcelona make a trip to Real Sociedad for an important clash in 2021/22 La Liga. Both teams will be looking for a win here.
Kick-off : 9:30 PM (Local)
Venue : Reale Arena, San Sebastian
Barcelona will be very disappointed with the recent string of results and especially the Europa League exit. They know they can’t win the league this time around and hence will look to win every game as they come to finish on a high.
Barca in the points table are currently third with 60 points after 31 games. They are battling to finish in the top four. Their rivals for that being teams like Atletico Madrid, Sevilla, Real Betis & Real Sociedad.
Talking about the midweek fixture, boss Xavi will wanna use the 4-3-3 system to extract a possible win away at San Sebastian.
On the other hand, Real Sociedad themselves have had a fabulous campaign in the La Liga so far and they will look to carry on playing positively to finish higher.
The White and Blues are currently sixth in the points table after 32 games with 55 points. They will aim to finish in the top four themselves.
Real Sociedad manager Alguacil will likely utilise the 4-1-2-1-2 formation against a strong Barca side who are sure to test the home side to the fullest.
Team news and possible lineups
Mikel Oyarzabal, Nacho Monreal, Carlos Fernandez & Ander Barrenetxea will all be unavailable as due to injuries. While David Silva is suspended.
As for Barcelona, Ronald Araujo is available and will likely play. While Pedri is injured and hence be unavailable.
Real Sociedad XI : Remiro, Zaldua, Zubeldia, Le Normand, Rico, Merino, Zubimendi, Rafinha, Isak, Sorloth, Portu.
Barcelona XI : Ter Stegen, Araujo, Pique, E. Garcia, Alba, F. de Jong, Busquets, Gavi, Dembele, Aubameyang, Torres.
Prediction
I expect this game to be a draw, maybe 1-1 given both teams current form.