Real Sociedad vs. Elche: A Clash of Contrasting Fortunes

Real Sociedad faces Elche tonight at Anoeta, with both teams experiencing markedly different trajectories in the 2026 season. The home side has maintained an unbeaten streak, having played seven matches across LaLiga and the Copa, while the visitors have failed to secure a victory in their last six, resulting in a downward slide in the standings for Elche under coach Eder Sarabia.

Buoyed by their recent Copa comeback that propelled them into the semifinals, Real Sociedad arrives with renewed confidence. This success often alleviates fatigue, and under coach Pellegrino Matarazzo, the team has not experienced defeat since his appointment.

However, Matarazzo will be without Brais Méndez due to suspension. It is expected that Sucic will return to the starting lineup, and Zubeldia could make a comeback in attack. The coach will need to decide whether to continue with Oyarzabal and Guedes, both of whom are performing at their peak this season, or to make changes in midfield.

Elche, on the other hand, is seeking a turnaround to halt their recent poor performance and distance themselves from the relegation zone. They have garnered only two points from their last fifteen and are coming off two defeats against Levante (3-2) and Barcelona (1-3). As a result, they have slipped from the upper half of the table, now just two points above the relegation zone.

To improve their fortunes, the team from Elche must enhance their away performance, as they are currently the worst visitors in the league, with only four points from thirty available. Moreover, they face a historical challenge, having won just once in 23 visits to this venue.

Coach Eder Sarabia is still grappling with injuries and the recent flurry of transfer activity. New signings Gonzalo Villar and Tete Morente are set to start on the bench, while Buba Sangaré will be unavailable. On the positive side, Aleix Febas returns from suspension, and captain Bigas has recovered from injury.

Both teams feature strikers who are in good form, each having scored three goals in their recent league matches. Their continued scoring will be crucial in determining whether the points remain in San Sebastián or travel to Elche.