Real Sociedad is set to face Eldense in the round of 32 of the Copa del Rey on Tuesday night. The match will take place at Estadio Municipal Nuevo Pepico Amat.
Match Preview: Eldense vs. Real Sociedad
This Copa del Rey encounter comes at a crucial time for both teams. Real Sociedad currently occupies the 15th position in La Liga, while Eldense sits seventh in the Primera Federación – Group 2, the third tier of Spanish football.
Recent Performances
Real Sociedad recently fired head coach Sergio Francisco after just 18 matches, where the team found itself only a point above the relegation zone. The dismissal followed a disappointing 2-1 home loss to Girona and a previous defeat to Alaves. Despite losing only three of their last 11 matches, the team’s streak of three consecutive La Liga losses was a significant factor in the club’s decision to make a change at the top.
Meanwhile, Eldense, now managed by Claudio Barragán, has been in excellent form, losing just one of their last 11 matches across all competitions. The team reached this stage of the Copa del Rey after defeating fourth-tier Jaen 3-1 and overcoming second-tier Almería with a 2-1 victory, having turned the match around after trailing at half-time.
Eldense Prospects
- Eldense has won their last two Copa del Rey matches.
- The team has a strong home record, earning 17 points from eight league games.
- They are just two points behind the playoffs in their league.
Team News
Borja Calvo is a candidate for midfield inclusion for Eldense, having replaced Marcos Bustillo in their last match against Tarazona. While only two players have completed both of Eldense’s previous Copa del Rey ties, significant lineup changes are not anticipated unless injuries arise.
On the other hand, Real Sociedad’s interim head coach, Ion Ansotegi, faces challenges in selecting a starting lineup. Following their recent match against Girona, where they led until late in the game, the team may largely remain the same except for a few adjustments. Jon Karrikaburu is likely to replace Ander Barranetxea, with Unai Marrero expected to take the goalkeeper position.
Possible Lineups
| Eldense | Real Sociedad |
|---|---|
| Vila | Marrero |
| Clemente | Aramburu |
| Smand | Martin |
| Serradell | Zubeldia |
| Ruiz | Gomez |
| Molina | Gorrotxategi |
| Calvo | Kubo |
| Quintana | Mendez |
| Fidel | Soler |
| Dioni | Karrikaburu |
| Bellari | Guedes |
Match Prediction
Despite facing Eldense, who will hope for an upset with a temporary head coach at the helm, we predict that Real Sociedad will emerge victorious. A close match is anticipated, but the La Liga side should secure their progress to the last 16.
