Real Sociedad arrives at SanMamés with the intention of continuing its winning streak and strengthening its position in the LaLiga table. Pellegrino Matarazzo's side have won their last four matches in the competition and are unbeaten in their six recent matches in all competitions, with five wins and one draw. This positive form gives the Guipuzcoan team considerable confidence ahead of the Basque derby that will take place on Sunday at 9:00 p.m.
Athletic Club, which plays in the same category, faces a Real team that seems to have overcome any expectation of favoritism. Although the theory usually favors the local team due to the support of its fans, Real's good performance neutralizes that advantage and a balanced match is expected, with a fast and open pace that favors the offensive and vertical style that the American coach has imprinted on his players. The duel is presented as an equal clash, where both teams will seek to impose their vision of the game.
In the classification table, Real is in fifth position with 19 points, while Athletic is in twelfth place with 12 points. Athletic still has a match pending against Rayo Vallecano, which, in case of victory, would allow it to rise to within four points of Real. The difference at the beginning of the season between the two coaches, Matarazzo and Edin Terzic, is evident in the table, although the final result of the match will depend on the execution on the field of play.
The derby will also be the first tactical confrontation between the two coaches in Spain. Matarazzo and Terzic represent different styles, but the match will decide who manages to impose their philosophy on the field. Real Sociedad sees this match as an opportunity to strengthen its European candidacy and turn its streak into a coup of authority against its rival.
With the confidence that their streak gives them, Real Sociedad seeks to continue its good moment and consolidate its position at the top of the table. Athletic, for its part, will try to reverse its situation and get closer to the qualifying zone. The final result of the Basque derby will determine if Real maintains its momentum or if Athletic manages to make up ground.