Real Sociedad Shock Barcelona with 1-0 Victory as La Liga Leaders Suffer Setback

Real Sociedad has given Barcelona a second La Liga defeat of the season, rigorously outplaying the leaders in San Sebastian.

Sheraldo Becker’s first-half goal - taken well after securing on to a flick-on-proved the difference, though Real Sociedad had plenty of chances to add to the lead. 

Becker, Mikel Oyarzabal and replacement Ander Barrenetxea all missed the target when supplied with good opportunities to make it 2-0, while the expected Barca pressure never arrived. They never even reached a shot on target. 

Lamine Yamal missed the match against Real Sociedad because of the injury. Even their best moment, a Robert Lewandowski goal was ruled out by VAR for offside. 

Defeat means Barcelona’s lead has been cut to six points and chasing Real Madrid have a game in hand. Sociedad climbed up to eighth thanks to their second home victory of the league season. 

Player of the match - Take Kubo (Real Sociedad)

The host's creative play making style and converting passes that could make a key move for the team, the only surprise is Kubo was not involved in the goal. His impressive range of passing caused Barcelona problems and, albeit in small quantities, Kubo dribbled too well for them. 

Player rating: 

Real Sociedad: Remiro 6, Zubeldia 7, Aramburu 6, Munoz 6, Aguerd 6, Zubimendi 7, Becker 7, Kubo 8, Mendez 6, Oyarzabal 6. Subs: Gomez 6, Oskarsson 6, Barrenetxea 6, Elustondo n/a.

Barcelona: Pena 6, Konude 5, Cubarsi 6, Martinez 7, Balde 6, Fermin 5, Casado 5, De Jong 6, Pedri 5, Rapina 4, Lewandoksi 6. Subs: OLmo 4, Fati 5, Gavi n/a, Victor n/a.