The stakes couldn't be higher as Real Sociedad prepares to clash with Osasuna in the Round of 16 of the Copa del Rey on January 13, 2026. With both teams eager to establish dominance and move a step closer to silverware, this encounter at the Reale Arena is set to be a tactical showdown. Sociedad, fresh off a resilient performance against Getafe, is looking to build momentum while Osasuna seeks redemption after their recent struggles.
Predicted Lineups
For Real Sociedad: GK: Álex Remiro, DEF: Sergio Gómez, Duje Ćaleta-Car, Jon Aramburu, Igor Zubeldia, MID: Gonçalo Guedes, Carlos Soler, Beñat Turrientes, Takefusa Kubo, FWD: Mikel Oyarzabal, Brais Méndez. For Osasuna: GK: Sergio Herrera, DEF: Alejandro Catena, Flavien Boyomo, Jorge Herrando, Valentin Rosier, MID: Lucas Torró, Jon Moncayola, Víctor Muñoz, FWD: Ante Budimir.
Recent form provides an intriguing backdrop to this fixture. Real Sociedad stands with a solid record marked by two wins and three draws in their last five outings. They showed their ability to control possession effectively against Getafe (67%) and recorded impressive passing statistics that suggest they're building cohesively. In contrast, Osasuna's trajectory has been more turbulent; they've drawn twice recently and suffered a disappointing loss at Barcelona that exposed defensive frailties.
Tactical Dynamics
Analyzing both teams' recent statistics reveals pivotal insights for this match. Real Sociedad has exhibited superior ball retention and creativity in midfield with high pass accuracy averaging around 84%. Their dual-threat attack involving Oyarzabal and Méndez creates opportunities through not just shots but intelligent movement and pressing - evidenced by their xG stat hovering around 0.74 against Atlético Madrid.
Conversely, Osasuna has struggled under pressure recently despite some offensive sparks from players like Ante Budimir who netted four goals in eleven appearances this season. Their defensive metrics show significant weaknesses - allowing an xG of 1.22 in their latest draw against Athletic Club highlights ongoing issues in keeping opponents at bay. This could spell trouble as they face a Sociedad side that's adept at capitalizing on such openings.
Sociedad's attacking pattern suggests they can expect to dominate possession again - having achieved an average possession of over 60% across most matches lately - which forces opponents into reactive positions rather than dictating play themselves. On the other hand, Osasuna may need to adapt quickly if they're caught on the back foot; they can't afford to allow Sociedad's attackers too much time or space as shown by previous encounters where they've conceded early goals.
Key Players
In terms of individual brilliance impacting the game's outcome:
- For Real Sociedad: Look out for Mikel Oyarzabal who has not only netted five goals this season but also contributes with his creative playmaking capabilities that consistently disrupt opposing defenses.
- From Osasuna: Ante Budimir must lead his team offensively; however he will require support from the midfield to break down Sociedad's lines effectively - something they've struggled with when relying too heavily on individual efforts alone.
This matchup presents key statistical battles that could define who moves forward in the competition: ball control versus quick counter-attacks will be fundamental themes throughout the match day strategy discussions for both managers.
Prediction
Based on current form and statistical analyses leading into this high-stakes knockout match-up - combined with head-to-head history where Sociedad claimed victory earlier in November - I predict a decisive win for Real Sociedad here. Expect them to take control early through effective use of possession coupled with dynamic attacking interplay leading up to a final scoreline of 2-0 or perhaps even 3-1 should Osasuna press forward leaving spaces behind defensively late in the game trying desperately for a comeback.
With the talent disparity showcased within squad depth favoring Sociedad along with recent performances pointing towards an uptick in confidence levels amid their ranks - they are poised for another emphatic display advancing them further into Copa del Rey glory contention!