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Barcelona host Real Sociedad on September 28 in a LaLiga clash that combines high expectations with plenty of tactical intrigue. Hansi Flick’s side enters the contest in strong form, fresh from a Champions League victory over Newcastle United, while Real Sociedad continue to wrestle with inconsistency and defensive issues.
Barcelona’s Form and Temporary Home Advantage
The Catalan giants sit second in LaLiga and look revitalized under Flick’s leadership. Their 2-1 away triumph against Newcastle, powered by a Marcus Rashford brace, extended their remarkable run of scoring in 41 consecutive matches. Averaging nearly three goals per game, Barça’s attack has become one of the most feared in Europe.
Despite their form, the Camp Nou remains closed due to ongoing safety concerns, forcing the team to continue playing at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys in Montjuïc. While the venue lacks the aura of their historic home ground, it provides greater capacity and improved conditions compared to the smaller Estadi Johan Cruyff, used earlier this year. Still, the atmosphere could prove less intimidating for visiting teams.
Real Sociedad’s Struggles and Key Players
Real Sociedad travel to Barcelona after a disappointing 3-1 loss to Real Betis, a result that leaves them 18th in the standings with only two points from six games. The Basque side have yet to find a winning formula, with glaring defensive weaknesses—14 goals conceded in their last eight matches and no clean sheet in nine straight outings.
Sergio Francisco’s men will look to Brais Méndez, who scored in their most recent match, and Takefusa Kubo, whose pace and creativity could trouble Barça on the counter. Yet their overall lack of cohesion, compounded by a three-game losing streak, makes this an intimidating assignment against a high-pressing side that thrives on forcing mistakes.
Prediction
Barcelona’s midfield, anchored by Pedri and Gavi, is expected to dictate the tempo, while Rashford’s form in front of goal offers Flick a reliable edge in the final third. Real Sociedad’s best chance lies in absorbing pressure and breaking quickly, but their defensive frailties suggest they may struggle to withstand Barça’s relentless press.
While Real Sociedad are capable of snatching a goal—especially given Barcelona’s occasional lapses at the back—the hosts’ quality and momentum should ultimately prove decisive.
Barcelona’s superior attacking depth, combined with their excellent domestic form, makes them overwhelming favorites. Expect the Basques to push back in moments, but Flick’s men look poised to extend their unbeaten run and keep pace at the top of LaLiga.
Prediction: Barcelona 3 – 1 Real Sociedad
