In the UEFA Europa League matchday, Real Sociedad achieved a goalless draw with Union Saint-Gilloise, but the real victory was that of their youth players, IgorZubeldía, JonGorrotxategi and BeñatTurrientes, who stood out in a difficult match and demonstrated their value as key pieces of the team.
The match, which was decided in extra time, was marked by the physical pressure of the Belgian and the absence of several starters. With JonMikelAramburu injured, ÁlvaroOdriozola out of action and HéctorFort recently recovered, American coach PellegrinoMatarazzo turned to the home reserve. Zubeldía, normally a center back, accepted the challenge of playing as a right back. Despite receiving a yellow card after 20 seconds, he remained calm and appeared solid defensively, supported by Ochieng in the most difficult moments. His ability to alternate between central defense and winger demonstrated the versatility the coach needs while the infirmary doesn't give him a break.
In midfield, Gorrotxategi became the driving force of the team. After the Belgian start, the Eibar pivot began to control the game, recovering the ball and distributing it with precision. His statistics in DenDreef reflect a dominant performance: 81% of passes completed, 82% of success in the opposite field and 5 of 7 duels won on the ground. In addition, he blocked three shots and recovered four balls, showing that he is prepared to assume leadership of the midfield.
Turrientes, for its part, delivered a coup in the second half. After the break, he replaced YangelHerrera and, in just 50 seconds, he put pressure on the Belgian pivot VandePerre, causing an error that allowed him to score Real Sociedad's goal. During the 45 minutes he played, he completed 21 of 27 passes (78%) and maintained 100% accuracy in his zone. His presence in the center of the field provided dynamism and reading of spaces, which allowed the team to control the pace of the game.
The result, although without goals, was a clear message that the youth players are indispensable pieces for Real Sociedad. Matarazzo, upon seeing the performance of Zubeldía, Gorrotxategi and Turrientes, reaffirmed his confidence in them and gave them the opportunity to continue growing within the first team. With the season still underway, these players are prepared to continue contributing their energy and commitment to upcoming matches in the league and European competition.