Real Sociedad pulled off one of the surprises of the La Liga season on Sunday, defeating Barcelona 2–1 at the Estadio Anoeta and ending Barcelona’s long unbeaten run — even though Sociedad finished the match with just ten players.
The hosts stunned the league leaders when Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring in the 32nd minute with a powerful volley that left the Barcelona defense flat-footed. Sociedad looked confident and organized, soaking up pressure as Barcelona tried to find a way back into the game.
Barcelona did eventually level in the 70th minute when Marcus Rashford, coming off the bench, rose highest to power a header into the net. It looked like the visitors had seized control — but the drama was just beginning.
Barely a minute later, Gonçalo Guedes restored Real Sociedad’s lead with a composed finish, calmly slotting the ball past the keeper to make it 2–1 and send the home crowd into a frenzy.
The match took an even more dramatic turn late on when Sociedad were reduced to ten men. Carlos Soler received a red card after a late challenge, leaving his team with one player fewer for the closing stages. But despite the numerical disadvantage, Sociedad’s defense stood firm and made every challenge count.
Barcelona had several chances to equalize again, hitting the woodwork and pushing bodies forward, but Sociedad defended resolutely to secure what could be one of the most memorable wins of their season.
With the defeat, Barcelona’s electric winning streak — which had covered more than ten consecutive victories across all competitions — finally came to an end. The loss also narrows their advantage at the top of the La Liga table, giving fresh momentum to the chasing pack.
🔥 Match Summary — Real Sociedad 2–1 Barcelona
Venue: Estadio Anoeta
Competition: La Liga
Real Sociedad produced a stunning upset by beating league leaders Barcelona 2–1 in a dramatic encounter, even after being reduced to 10 men late in the game.
The home side took the lead in the 32nd minute when Mikel Oyarzabal smashed home a brilliant volley after a quick attacking move. Barcelona dominated possession but struggled to break down Sociedad’s compact defense.
In the 70th minute, substitute Marcus Rashford brought Barça level with a powerful header, giving the visitors fresh hope. But the celebration didn’t last long.
Just one minute later, Gonçalo Guedes finished calmly to restore Sociedad’s lead, sending the Anoeta crowd into wild celebration.
Late drama followed when Carlos Soler was sent off, leaving Sociedad with 10 men. Barcelona pushed hard in the final minutes, hit the woodwork, and created several chances — but Sociedad defended bravely to hold on for a famous victory.
The result ends Barcelona’s long winning streak and shakes up the La Liga title race.
⭐ Player Ratings
Real Sociedad
Mikel Oyarzabal – 8.5/10
Captain’s performance. Took his goal brilliantly and led from the front.
Gonçalo Guedes – 8/10
Match-winner. Cool finish under pressure.
Robin Le Normand – 8/10
Rock solid in defense. Cleared everything in the box.
Álex Remiro – 7.5/10
Important saves late on to protect the lead.
Barcelona
Marcus Rashford – 7.5/10
Changed the game after coming on. Took his goal well.
Lamine Yamal – 7/10
Bright and dangerous, but lacked end product.
Pedri – 6.5/10
Controlled midfield but couldn’t unlock the defense.
Robert Lewandowski – 6/10
Worked hard but was tightly marked all night.
