Real Sociedad secured their place in the round of 16 of the UEFA Women's Cup after beating Fenerbahce 2‑0 at the Zubieta Stadium. Goals from Maren Lezeta and Ainhoa Marín gave the San Sebastian team a comfortable lead for the second leg, which will be played in Türkiye. The result, which was achieved in front of 805 spectators, marks an important milestone for the club, which advances with confidence to the next phase of the tournament.
The match began with a first half in which neither team managed to dominate. The initial possession was in favor of Real Sociedad, but their attacking attempts were ineffective. Esther's first shot in the 10th minute failed to hit the goal, and Fenerbahce responded with a Turkuglu shot that also went over. Throughout the first 30 minutes, both teams exchanged opportunities, but none came to fruition. Arola's center and the performance of Ainhoa Marín and Intza were notable, although the goal did not come.
The turning point came in the second half, when Real Sociedad began to take advantage of their advantages on the wings. In the 58th minute, Maren Lezeta capitalized on a set piece and scored with a header, giving the first goal of the match. The play was generated from a cross by Arola that was blocked by the Turkish goalkeeper, but Lezeta managed to overcome the defense and score with precision. The goal demonstrated Real Sociedad's ability to convert set-piece opportunities and put pressure on the Turkish team.
Just four minutes later, Ainhoa Marín sealed the result with a second goal. The play began with a run by Intza that left the Fenerbahce defense disorganized. Cecilia, who had entered the game, received the ball inside the area and, with a firm head, found Marín free to finish. The goal ended the score at 2‑0 and consolidated the advantage for Real Sociedad, who will now be able to defend the result in the return leg in Türkiye.
The match was also marked by disciplinary decisions. Italian referee Martina Molinaro cautioned Fenerbahce's Seker and Bowen and sent off Alves, reducing the Turkish team's number of players at critical moments. Despite the expulsion, Fenerbahce tried to react, but Real Sociedad's defense remained solid and did not allow any more goals.
With this victory, Real Sociedad advances to the round of 16 of the competition and prepares for the challenge in Türkiye. Gorka Álvarez's team has demonstrated its ability to generate more opportunities and overcome high-level rivals, which bodes well for a promising future in the knockout phase. The next day will be crucial to consolidate the position of the San Sebastian team and continue advancing in the Cup.