Espanyol shocks Real Sociedad with first-half dominance
What a night in Anoeta, where Espanyol managed to silence the Real Sociedad supporters with a commanding first half that set the tone of the match. The game began at a frantic pace, with the home side eager to take control. Just 20 seconds after the whistle, Oyarzabal and Barrene combined to create the first dangerous chance, but Dimitrovic was alert and stopped Pablo MarÃn’s run into the box. That start suggested that La Real was ready to push forward, but things soon took a very different turn.
In the 10th minute, Espanyol struck first. A quick counterattack, led by Dolan and Roberto Fernández, ended with Pere Milla diving in to connect with a cross and put the visitors ahead. It was a classic example of how dangerous Espanyol can be when given space, and the goal shifted the entire momentum of the game. The home fans were stunned, and from that moment, the nerves started to show in Real Sociedad’s play.
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Despite having more possession—over 60% during the first half—La Real could not turn their control into goals. Kubo and Barrene tried repeatedly, sending in dangerous crosses and even forcing Dimitrovic to make solid saves, but the accuracy in the final touch simply wasn’t there. Meanwhile, Espanyol looked increasingly comfortable. Each time they recovered the ball, their counterattacks caused panic in the Real Sociedad defense.
The crucial blow came just before halftime. In the 42nd minute, Roberto Fernández drew a penalty after being held by Jon MartÃn inside the box. Puado stepped up to take it, and although Remiro saved the first attempt, the VAR ordered a retake due to an early invasion in the area. On the second try, Puado made no mistake, blasting the ball down the middle to double Espanyol’s advantage. By the time the referee blew for the break, the scoreline read Real Sociedad 0 – Espanyol 2, and the Reale Arena had gone silent.
The statistics at halftime told the story clearly: Real Sociedad had dominated the ball, but Espanyol had been far more efficient, with six shots compared to La Real’s five and, most importantly, two goals on the board. The visitors were disciplined at the back, sharp on the break, and clinical when it mattered.
As the second half began, Real Sociedad tried to react. Kubo and Sucic combined well on the right, but once again Dimitrovic was there to collect. Pere Milla even had a chance to extend the lead from a free kick, but his shot flew over the bar. The home side kept pushing, yet frustration grew with every wasted chance.
By the end of the night, the impression was clear: Espanyol had come to Anoeta with a plan, and it was executed perfectly. Their defensive solidity and quick counters made the difference, and they left San Sebastián with three valuable points. For Real Sociedad, this was a harsh reminder that possession without precision can cost dearly. The season has just begun, but already both teams have sent a message—Espanyol is here to compete, and La Real still has plenty to work on.
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