In a challenging UEFA Europa League clash at the Reale Arena, Real Sociedad claimed a vital 2-0 victory over AFC Ajax. In a closely contested encounter, the txuri-urdin’s greater second-half performance proved decisive. Goals from Barrene and Take secured three crucial points, lifting Real Sociedad up the table and bringing them closer to securing a spot in the knockout stages.
Anticipated as a fast-paced encounter, the match lived up to expectations. Ajax threatened early with a counterattack that saw Brobbey hit the post, while Real Sociedad replied with a headed effort from Oyarzabal off a set piece, narrowly missing the target. While the Dutch side looked slightly more dangerous, the best chance of the first half fell to Oyarzabal, but his shot from close range after a sharp turn lacked the necessary accuracy.
After the break, Imanol’s side exerted more control but initially lacked precision in the attacking third. Take tested the goalkeeper with a slightly forced shot, while the visitors struck the woodwork again from long distance. Real Sociedad’s persistence paid dividends when Aramburu and Take linked up brilliantly, with the latter’s pinpoint cross finding Barrene at the far post to break the deadlock. In the final minutes, Take’s deflected strike sealed the victory, putting the game to bed.
This crucial win boosts Real Sociedad’s position in the group and fuels optimism for the remainder of their European campaign. We are Real.
Match Details:
Royal Society: Remiro, Aritz (Aramburu, 45+2′), Zubeldia, Aguerd, Aihen, Zubimendi, Sučić (Turrientes, 46′), Brais Méndez, Take (Sergio Gómez, 87′), Becker (Barrene, 65′), Oyarzabal ( captain) (Sadiq, 87′).
AFC Ajax: Pasveer, Rensch, Sutalo, Baas, Hato (Wijndal, 74′), Henderson (captain), Fitz-Jim (Hlynsson, 74′), Berghuis (Van den Boomen, 65′), Traore (Banel, 65′), Akpom , Brobbey (Rasmussen, 34′).
Goals:
1-0: Barrene (67’). 2-0: Take (85’).
Referee: Matej Jug (Slovenia). Yellow cards: Brais Méndez, Aramburu, Aihen (Real Sociedad); Wijndal, Van den Boomen (Ajax).
Attendance: 32,786 spectators.
