September 18, (THEWILL) – Real Madrid came from behind to beat Real Sociedad 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday, maintaining their 100% start to the new La Liga season.
Although Los Blancos fell behind to an early Ander Barrenetxea goal, second-half strikes from Federico Valverde and Joselu saw the hosts claim all three points and return to the top of the table. Sociedad had shocked the home crowd by taking a surprise lead in the opening exchanges, with Barrenetxea capitalising on an error from Dani Carvajal to prod home at the second attempt. Madrid responded well though, with Joselu and Jude Bellingham both going close to an equaliser.
The away side threatened again before half-time, but Mikel Merino saw his header brilliantly saved. Madrid started the second period brightly and found their equaliser just after the restart through Valverde’s terrific long-range effort. Buoyed by the goal, they began to dominate and deservedly went in front on the hour mark, with Joselu heading home Fran Garcia’s pinpoint cross. Madrid continued to press for a third but had to settle for a 2-1 victory.
The result means Real maintain their flawless start to the La Liga campaign, having now won their opening five matches. The performance showed they have the resilience and quality to come from behind against one of Spain’s form teams. They will be delighted to head into European action at the summit of the domestic table.
Next up for the reigning Spanish champions is a Wednesday clash against Bundesliga side Union Berlin in the first game of the UEFA Champions League. For Sociedad, a home tie against Serie A highflyers Inter Milan in the UCL on the same day awaits.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
