Villarreal – Real Sociedad

The match between Villarreal and Real Sociedad promises to be tight

On Matchday 37 of the La Liga, Villarreal take on Real Sociedad at home. The teams are fighting for a place in the Europa League. A draw will be enough for the Basques to qualify. Villarreal need only a win to edge out their rivals. A defeat for Villarreal could mean the absence of European competitions next year, subject to Athletic's two victories in their matches. "The submarine has had a disappointing first half of the season. At the finish line, Emery's side are playing at a top-four level. Taking a distance of fifteen rounds, Villarreal are in fourth place in Spain, behind only the big three. Emery's side have eight wins and just 12 conceded goals. The defence, led by Pau Torres, is a big problem even for the big teams. Villarreal's latest defeats have only been in away matches. At home, the Submarine gives battle even to top clubs. Villarreal handled Rayo Vallecano very easily in midweek. Real Sociedad are having an even season at their level. At one point, the team was significantly affected by injuries. In particular, David Silva was absent. The legendary midfielder returned, and things picked up. At the same time the situation with the injured and suspended players remains very tense. The key defensive player Le Normand is missing, top scorer Isak is suspended, winger Oyarzabal will not play either. Three important performers who are always in the starting line-up. This significantly reduces Real Sociedad's potential in all lines. The Basques have had problems in recent matches. In the nine games prior to that, Sociedad had only scored six goals. The bookmakers reckon that the encounter between the two European Cup contenders will be dense. Real Sociedad do not score more than a goal per game on average. Defensively, they have conceded just 34 goals. It is logical to assume that there won't be much risk now either. Villarreal will get the ball under control. It is far from certain that it will provoke an exchange of goals. The teams are among the La Liga leaders in terms of draws. Of their last three matches, two of them have ended 1-1.