Real Sociedad prepares for the next Basque derby in SanMamés with the certainty that its recent record against Athletic Club offers it a clear advantage. In the 2025-26 season, the San Sebastian team have won three of the four games and have drawn once, which has allowed them to advance to the final of the Copa del Rey and secure their qualification for the Spanish Super Cup.
The first win of the streak was recorded in November 2025, when Real Sociedad beat Athletic 2-1 in Anoeta. The match was about to end in a draw when, in the 92nd minute, JonGorrotxategi scored a header that sealed the victory. That goal, which became a symbol for the fans, demonstrated the team's ability to overcome critical moments.
In February 2026, under the direction of PellegrinoMatarazzo, Real Sociedad once again faced Athletic in LaLiga. The match began with an early lead thanks to a goal from GonçaloGuedes, but the expulsion of BraisMéndez in the second half changed the course. IñigoRuiz de Galarreta scored the tying goal, leaving the visiting team with a 1‑1 lead.
The Copa del Rey also saw the two teams meet in the semi-finals. In the first leg, held in Bilbao, Real Sociedad won 1‑0 thanks to a goal from BeñatTurrientes, which came after a play by GonçaloGuedes and CarlosSoler. In the second leg, in Anoeta, MikelOyarzabal converted a penalty in the 87th minute, ensuring the final 1‑0 and passage to the final of the competition.
With these results, Real Sociedad has shown that its style of play, which combines solid defense and aggressive offense, is effective against its rival. The next derby in SanMamés is perceived as an opportunity to repeat last season's success and continue its dominance in direct matches. The fans expect the team to maintain the defensive concentration and offensive energy that have allowed them to triumph in the four games played against Athletic.