Real Sociedad 2-0 Ajax: Erreala strengthen playoff hopes with a narrow win over visitors
Real Sociedad secured a 2-0 victory against the formidable Ajax in their inaugural head-to-head meeting, thereby ending the Dutch team's unbeaten streak in this season's UEFA Europa League (UEL).
Ajax, who had gone 16 matches without defeat across all competitions prior to this encounter, began the match with a positive approach. Chuba Akpom missed a promising opportunity by shooting wide following a swift counterattack. Eleven minutes into the match, Brian Brobbey had a chance to score but was left frustrated as his shot hit the post under pressure.
This moment turned out to be Ajax's most significant opportunity of the first half, as scoring chances became scarce thereafter. Although Real Sociedad enjoyed more possession, they struggled to make a significant impact until the closing moments of the half. Sheraldo Becker found Mikel Oyarzabal, who, with his back to the goal, attempted a turn but sent the ball wide.
The first half concluded on a disappointing note for the hosts, with Aritz Elustondo being stretchered off. However, the match gained momentum after the interval. Both teams had opportunities to take the lead, with Takefusa Kubo's low shot being saved and Kian Fitz-Jim hitting the post at the opposite end.
Sociedad believed they had scored when Jon Aramburu converted a set-piece from an offside position, but they soon found success with a legitimate goal. Ander Barrenetxea finished Kubo's cross in the 67th minute, putting Sociedad ahead.
The second half saw a marked improvement from Sociedad, culminating in a second goal in the final minutes. Kubo made a decisive run towards goal, placing his shot into the corner, thus securing only their third victory in ten home matches.
Real Sociedad continues to uphold their unbeaten streak against Dutch teams, moving to within three points of the top eight after a challenging beginning to their European campaign.
Ajax, on the other hand, has experienced their ninth loss in the last 13 away encounters against Spanish sides, resulting in a decline in their standings. However, they still manage to stay within the automatic qualification positions.
SportsLigue