Barcelona are set to continue their chase of league leaders Real Madrid when they host Real Sociedad at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys on Sunday evening. Hansi Flick’s side sit second in the La Liga table with 16 points from six matches, two behind Los Blancos.
The Catalans are coming into the game after a 3-1 midweek win against Real Oviedo, showing resilience after falling behind early. With Real Madrid dropping points against Atletico Madrid, Barcelona will absolutely need to take advantage. Especially against a struggling Sociedad who remain near the bottom after a poor start.
❝Real Sociedad like to build from the back and have very quick forwards up front. It's a great opportunity to show our quality. ❞
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) September 27, 2025
Hansi Flick pic.twitter.com/11bvWTtNQu
Barcelona’s squad situation is mixed ahead of this clash. Lamine Yamal and Alejandro Balde could return. However, even that’s likely from the bench as Flick looks ahead to the Champions League tie with PSG. Raphinha is sidelined with a thigh injury, while Joan Garcia faces surgery and 4-6 weeks out.
Long-term absentees Gavi, Fermin Lopez, and Marc-Andren ter Stegen remain unavailable. However, Flick is expected to rotate his side. Wojciech Szczesny, Jules Kounde, Frenkie de Jong, Marc Casado, and Robert Lewandowski are in contention to start. Lewandowski will especially be fresh from scoring against Oviedo.
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Real Sociedad finally earned their first win of the season against Mallorca. However, Sergio Francisco’s side still sit in 16th with only five points. They remain without Yangel Herrera and Orri Oskarsson due to injuries. Meanwhile Aritz Elustondo faces a late fitness test.
Despite the struggles, Francisco may stick with the XI that beat Mallorca, with Takefusa Kubo expected to start out wide. Carlos Soler impressed in midfield last time out and should retain his place. Sergio Gomez should continue at left-back after his standout performance.
This match could turn out to be a high-scoring one, with over 3.5 goals on offer around -125. The rationale is clear – Barcelona’s firepower is evident. They have also previously beaten Sociedad by large margins, including a 4-0 win in their corresponding fixture last season.
Given Barcelona’s attacking depth and the defensive vulnerabilities shown by Sociedad this campaign, the odds suggest a dominant Barca display. Hence, scores such as 3-1 or 4-0 appear absolutely plausible.
Lewandowski’s recent contributions justify the all-time scoring line at -200. Coming off the bench, he scored in the 3-1 win against Real Oviedo, proving that he’s a threat even as a substitute. He has been frequently getting shots on target. He has registered five in his last five La Liga appearances. So, he remains one of Barcelona’s main attacking outlets. The odds, therefore, price in his proven ability to find the net under various circumstances.
Yamal’s inclusion in the squad again offers value in attacking props. Though recently recovering, he is expected to participate even if in a substitute capacity. He could influence the match either by scoring or creating a key pass. Barcelona often use him as an injection of dynamism off the bench, and bettors see him as a dual threat. Hence, odds like -185 for goal contribution seems justifiable.
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Barcelona are entering this match with excellent form. They are unbeaten in La Liga with five wins and a draw, boasting 16 points. That is, just two behind leaders Real Madrid. They also have six wins in seven across all competitions. This includes a Champions League win against Newcastle United. In contrast, Real Sociedad are occupying 16th place with just five points. They were only just able to secure a narrow 1-0 win over Mallorca.
Given that Barcelona thrashed Sociedad 4-0 in the corresponding match last year, and considering the gulf in momentum, the prediction leans heavily to a comfortable home win. A 4-0 scoreline aligns with both Barcelona’s attacking prowess and Sociedad’s defensive frailties.
The Barcelona vs Real Sociedad La Liga clash is on September 28, 2025, at the Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium, Barcelona, Spain.
Barcelona are favorites to win with a moneyline at -325, to draw at +500 and for Real Sociedad to win at +775.
Marcus Rashford total shots: 3+ at -475
Lamine Yamal total shots on target: 2+ at -250
Dani Olmo assist: +200
soccer Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.
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