Real Madrid is gearing up for an important showdown against Real Sociedad at the Santiago Bernabeu, where they have the opportunity to claim the top spot in La Liga. The highly anticipated match is scheduled for Saturday, February 14, at 9pm local time (20:00 GMT). Fans can follow all the action starting with buildup coverage on Al Jazeera Sport from 17:00 GMT.
Under the management of Alvaro Arbeloa, Real Madrid aims to build on their recent success as they sit just one point behind league leaders Barcelona. The team is coming off a win against Valencia and has the momentum of seven consecutive victories propelling them forward. This match against Sociedad becomes crucial, especially as Barcelona faces Girona on Monday.
A key figure for Madrid in this match could be Trent Alexander-Arnold. The talented England right-back is back from injury and has the potential to make a significant impact in the second half of the season. Although he has faced challenges settling into his role due to hamstring and thigh injuries, Arbeloa has expressed cautious optimism about Alexander-Arnold’s integration into the squad, particularly ahead of their Champions League playoff against Benfica on February 17.
Real Sociedad, managed by Pellegrino Matarazzo, arrives in Madrid with confidence, having gone unbeaten in their last nine matches. They are currently in eighth place in the league but have shown their competitiveness by defeating Barcelona last month and advancing in the Copa del Rey after a successful first leg against Athletic Bilbao.
The pre-match atmosphere has been buzzing, particularly following a team-bonding dinner organized by stars Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe, demonstrating camaraderie within the squad as they aim for silverware in La Liga and the Champions League. Reports suggest that the dinner, which included all squad members and was well-received by the players, has contributed to a sense of unity ahead of the critical fixtures.
In injury news, while Vinicius is set to return after suspension, Mbappe’s participation is uncertain due to a knee concern. Jude Bellingham is ruled out with a hamstring injury, which could impact the team’s performance.
Historically, Real Madrid has dominated the encounters against Real Sociedad, winning 103 out of 184 fixtures, with their last meeting resulting in a 2-1 victory for Madrid in September. As both teams prepare for this clash, the stakes are high, and fans are eager to see if Madrid can seize the moment and emerge victorious at home.