Overview
Real Sociedad entered the match with high spirits after defeating Atletico Madrid in a penalty shootout to win the Copa del Rey. This title not only means relieving pressure but also helps the Basque team win a ticket to the Europa League in the 2026-2027 season.
In the context of being 15 points behind the top 4 and no longer having a chance to participate in the Champions League, Real Sociedad's motivation in La Liga is no longer too great. However, coach Pellegrino Matarazzo's team still aims to close the season with positive performances, especially when their recent form is showing signs of improvement.
In the opposite direction, Getafe is fighting for a clearer goal. Jose Bordalas' team is currently ranked 8th, only a few points behind the European Cup spot and still has a chance to break through in the final rounds. Six victories in the last 9 matches show significant stability, even though they just stumbled against Levante in the previous round.
Getafe's biggest strength lies in the defense when they have only conceded 32 goals, equal to Atletico Madrid. However, the attack is a problem when they have only scored 27 goals - among the worst in the league. This makes their playing style often pragmatic and heavily dependent on certainty.
In terms of head-to-head record, Getafe is dominant with 14 wins compared to Real Sociedad's 10, besides 11 draws. However, Real Sociedad once won 2-1 in the most recent encounter, showing a certain balance between the two teams.
With one side being excited after the title and the other still having the motivation to compete for a European cup ticket, the match promises to be an unpredictable showdown.
Personnel situation
Real Sociedad entered the match with some notable losses in terms of force. Inaki Ruperez and Alvaro Odriozola are definitely absent due to injuries, while Igor Zubeldia and Arsen Zakharyan still need to be further assessed for their fitness before the match kicks off. Besides, Sergio Gomez also cannot participate due to suspension after the red card in the match against Alaves.
After the tense Copa del Rey final, the home team is likely to rotate the squad. Names like Takefusa Kubo, Brais Mendez and Orri Oskarsson may be given the opportunity to start, while captain Mikel Oyarzabal is considered for rest to ensure fitness.
On the other side, Getafe also does not have the strongest force. Juanmi is absent due to injury, while Borja Mayoral still leaves open the possibility of playing due to not being in the best physical condition. The away team's defense suffered a great loss when Domingos Duarte was suspended for receiving enough yellow cards, and Zaid Romero also could not play after receiving a red card in the previous round.
In that context, they are forced to adjust personnel in the defense. Djene Dakonam may be pulled down to play center-back, while Sebastian Boselli is likely to be named in the starting lineup.
Expected lineup:
Real Sociedad: Remiro, Aramburu, Martin, Caleta-Car, Munoz, Gorrotxategi, Soler, Kubo, Mendez, Guedes, Oskarsson.
Getafe: Soria, Abqar, Dakonam, Boselli, Femenia, Milla, Arambarri, Iglesias, Liso, Satriano, Vazquez.
The match between Real Sociedad and Getafe takes place at 1:00 a.m. on April 23 (Vietnam time).
