Oyarzabal breaks the deadlock in a stakes-laden six-pointer between two sinking ships

À Éviter Score Futmetrix: 25/100. When two teams are drowning in the relegation battle, every point is a lifeline—and Real Sociedad just snatched Mallorca's.

The goal that shifted balance

Real Sociedad stormed into the second half with surgical precision. In the 49th minute, Mikel Oyarzabal capitalized on a masterclass from Ander Barrenetxea, who registered three key passes on the night to seal an 8.2 rating performance. This wasn't just a goal—it was a statement of desperation in the fight for survival points.

Relentless intensity on display

With 24 combined shots and 13 corners, the Reale Arena became a powder keg of intensity. Mallorca held firm under suffocating pressure, with Antonio Raíllo delivering a defensive masterclass rated 8.0, keeping the islanders in the contest when everything suggested a rout. Real Sociedad controlled 64% possession, but Mallorca refused to fold.

VAR drama in the 83rd minute

When the contest seemed settled, Samú Costa was sent tumbling in the box at the 83rd-minute mark. The referee pointed to the spot. Then VAR intervened. The decision was overturned. One reversal that encapsulated Mallorca's torment—so close to redemption, yet impossibly far. Real Sociedad breathed easy; the islanders watched their final golden chance evaporate.

The balance shifted, but fragile

This is a six-pointer between two teams in free fall. Real Sociedad climbs to 8 points with this crucial win, while Mallorca remains in the abyss on just 2. But make no mistake: one victory is a respite, not salvation. Takefusa Kubo completed a solid night for the txuri-urdin with a 7.5 rating, but the real battle has only just begun. Both clubs know the next stumble could be fatal.