The upcoming La Liga clash between Celta Vigo and Real Sociedad will take place at Balaidos Stadium on Sunday. Celta Vigo is seeking its first victory of the 2025-26 season, currently sitting at 16th place in the league. They have accumulated six points from their first eight matches. In contrast, Real Sociedad remains lower on the table, in 19th place, with just five points from the same number of games.
Celta Vigo’s Journey This Season
Celta Vigo has had a challenging start to the season. They have yet to secure a win, with six draws and two losses. Despite these struggles in La Liga, they managed a win in the Europa League against PAOK, demonstrating their potential. Their previous match in La Liga ended in a 1-1 draw against Atletico Madrid.
Last season, Celta Vigo finished seventh, which earned them a place in the Europa League. They need to improve their form to aim for a European spot again. Currently, they are seven points behind sixth-place Sevilla. A victory over Real Sociedad could provide the momentum they need.
Real Sociedad’s Struggles
Real Sociedad, meanwhile, had a disappointing finish last season, ending in 11th place. They have faced difficulties this season as well, with one win, two draws, and five losses from their eight matches. They only managed to secure a win against Mallorca on September 24, before suffering losses to Barcelona and Rayo Vallecano. The team’s current position poses a threat of relegation, an unthinkable situation given their history of competing in the top flight since 2009-10.
Team News and Possible Lineups
Celta Vigo may have to make adjustments to their lineup due to fitness concerns. Williot Swedberg and Mihailo Ristic are doubtful for this match. Coach Claudio Giraldez could introduce Iago Aspas as a replacement for Swedberg and bring in Bryan Zaragoza for Ferran Jutgla. Borja Iglesias, who has scored four goals in eight appearances this season, is expected to retain his position up front.
- Celta Vigo Possible Starting XI: Radu; Rodriguez, Starfelt, Alonso; Carreira, Rodriguez, Moriba, Mingueza; Aspas, Iglesias, Zaragoza
On the other side, Real Sociedad will miss some key players. Orri Oskarsson has a thigh injury, Aritz Elustondo has a rib issue, and Inaki Ruperez is sidelined with a knee problem. Mikel Oyarzabal, who has scored two goals and provided one assist this season, is anticipated to lead the attack.
- Real Sociedad Possible Starting XI: Remiro; Aramburu, Zubeldia, Caleta-Car, Gomez; Guedes, Mendez, Gorrotxategi, Soler, Barrenetxea; Oyarzabal
Match Prediction
Given the current form of both teams, a tightly contested match is expected. Celta Vigo has proven difficult to beat, while Real Sociedad is under pressure to secure a point. A goalless draw seems to be on the horizon for this encounter.
