Real Sociedad Survives Penalty Drama to Advance in Copa del Rey

Real Sociedad's resilience shone through as they edged past Osasuna in a gripping penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in the Round of 16 of the Copa del Rey. The match showcased the tactical prowess of Pellegrino Matarazzo's side, who controlled possession and created more opportunities, reflecting their recent form. Despite a shaky start, they managed to claw back from an early deficit, demonstrating their fighting spirit.

Real Sociedad dominated possession with 62%, a stark contrast to Osasuna's 38%. This ball control allowed them to dictate the tempo and create more scoring chances, evidenced by their 9 total shots compared to Osasuna's 6. The ability to maintain possession has been a hallmark of Sociedad's recent performances, as seen in their last five matches where they averaged over 60% possession. This match was no different, as they effectively utilized their midfield to stifle Osasuna's counter-attacks.

The attacking duo of Mikel Oyarzabal and Gonçalo Guedes has been pivotal for Sociedad, and their influence was felt again. Oyarzabal, despite an own goal that put Osasuna ahead early, redeemed himself by converting a crucial penalty in the shootout. His ability to bounce back under pressure highlights his importance to the team. Guedes, who has been consistent in recent outings, continues to be a creative force, contributing significantly to the team's attacking play.

Osasuna's early goal from Jon Moncayola set the tone for a tense encounter. However, their defensive frailties were exposed as they conceded two late goals, one of which was an own goal from Oyarzabal. This inconsistency has plagued Osasuna throughout their recent matches, where they have struggled to maintain leads. Their last five games reflect a turbulent form, with only one win against Alaves and two losses that have raised questions about their defensive solidity.

The penalty shootout was a microcosm of the match itself-tense and unpredictable. Sociedad converted four penalties while Osasuna managed three, showcasing the pressure on both sides. The shootout highlighted the psychological aspect of knockout football; players like Carlos Soler and Beñat Turrientes stepped up when it mattered most for Sociedad, reinforcing their confidence moving forward in the tournament.

Osasuna's recent form has been concerning, with only one win in their last five matches. Their inability to convert possession into goals has been evident, as they often find themselves on the back foot against teams that can exploit their defensive lapses. The loss against Girona just days prior added to their woes, emphasizing the need for improvement in both attack and defense.

The contrasting trajectories of these teams are evident in their recent performances. Sociedad has shown resilience and adaptability, bouncing back from setbacks and maintaining a competitive edge. In contrast, Osasuna's struggles have been compounded by inconsistent performances and a lack of cohesion in their play. The pressure is mounting on coach Alessio Lisci to find solutions quickly as they navigate through this challenging phase.

Looking ahead, Sociedad's victory not only secures their place in the next round but also boosts their confidence as they continue to chase silverware this season. Their ability to perform under pressure will be crucial as they face tougher opponents in the upcoming rounds. For Osasuna, this defeat serves as a wake-up call; they must address their defensive issues and find a way to convert chances if they hope to turn their season around.

The Copa del Rey remains a vital opportunity for both teams, but today's match underscored the importance of mental fortitude and tactical execution in knockout football. As Sociedad celebrates their advancement, Osasuna must regroup and refocus if they are to salvage their campaign moving forward.