Güler and Mbappé guide Madrid through ten-man ordeal against Sociedad
Highly Entertaining Futmetrix Score: 75/100. In a match of relentless intensity punctuated by Dean Huijsen's 32nd-minute dismissal, Real Madrid proved their championship mettle by holding firm against a Real Sociedad side fighting relegation.
Dominance, then defiance
Real Madrid dictated the early tempo with surgical precision. Kylian Mbappé struck first in the 12th minute, capitalizing on Sociedad's defensive fragility to give the visitors an early stranglehold. The balance of play was entirely Madrid's: 39 shots attempted versus Sociedad's 23. Then came the inflection point. Dean Huijsen's professional foul in the 32nd minute earned a straight red, transforming a controlled masterclass into a test of character.
Playing with ten men, Madrid retreated but never panicked. Arda Güler delivered the knockout blow before halftime—a clinical finish from Mbappé's assist in the 44th minute made it 2-0. Sociedad, desperate for points in their relegation battle, refused to fold. Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty in the 56th minute to set up a tense finale, but Madrid's resolve held.
Stakes and season trajectories
For Madrid, this victory extends their perfect record: four wins from four, 12 points, +6 goal difference. For Sociedad, the result deepens their crisis—17th place, just 2 points from four matches, with only two draws to show for their efforts. Dani Ceballos orchestrated Madrid's midfield with precision, enabling control even in numerical disadvantage.
The statistics reveal Madrid's clinical efficiency: 77% pass accuracy, six shots on target, 2.42 xG converted into two goals. Sociedad, despite 64% possession and 86% pass accuracy, couldn't overcome Madrid's defensive organization. Sixteen corners and 2.23 xG proved insufficient against a team operating at championship level. This wasn't a triumph of luck—it was the mark of a title contender.
Key Questions
How did Dean Huijsen's red card alter the match?
It shifted Madrid from dominance to survival mode. They retreated tactically but maintained their advantage; Sociedad gained possession but couldn't exploit their numerical edge.
What made Arda Güler decisive?
His 8.7 rating and pre-halftime goal sealed the result when Madrid faced pressure. Four key passes demonstrated his creative influence during the most critical period.
What does this defeat mean for Sociedad's season?
Alarming. Sitting 17th with just 2 points, Sociedad desperately needs wins to escape relegation. This loss deepens their crisis and increases pressure on their manager.
Why is this match rated 75/100?
Our Futmetrix algorithm analyzed intensity, balance, and stakes. The final score of 75/100 places this match in the "Highly Entertaining" category.
