The upcoming Europa League clash on 29 November 2024 at Reale Arena sees Real Sociedad taking on Ajax in a crucial Round 5 fixture. Real Sociedad desperately needs the three points to keep their playoff hopes alive, currently sitting 25th with just 4 points. In contrast, Ajax is comfortably placed in the 2nd spot with 10 points and is nearly assured of progressing to the knockout stages.
Real Sociedad’s recent form has been a mixed bag, with a recent victory against Barcelona highlighting their potential, but inconsistency has plagued their campaign. The weather forecast for the match indicates scattered clouds with a chilly 6°C, adding an element of unpredictability.
Ajax is in excellent form, unbeaten in their last sixteen matches and showing exceptional performance in set-pieces under coach Francesco Farioli. Key absences like Kenneth Taylor and Wout Weghorst due to suspension and flu, respectively, could impact their setup.
Given Real Sociedad’s b defensive record at home and Ajax’s current form, our recommended bet is for a Real Sociedad victory with odds of 2.01. Both teams are expected to score, making it an engaging encounter.
Real Sociedad vs Ajax Prediction & Betting Tip
For this key Europa League clash, our recommended betting tip is for a Real Sociedad victory. Given the importance of the match for Real Sociedad and their b home form, this appears to be a valuable tip.
| Real Sociedad vs Ajax Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting tip | Odds |
| Real Sociedad to win | 2.01 |
- Real Sociedad urgently needs a victory to boost their chances of reaching the Europa League playoffs.
- Real Sociedad recently secured a home victory against Barcelona, showcasing their b home form.
- Ajax has struggled for consistency this season, largely relying on young talent.
Real Sociedad’s solid defensive setup and clinical finishing, especially at home, could tilt the game in their favor. With more than 2.5 goals scored in 75% of both teams’ matches in this tournament, expect an engaging encounter.
Real Sociedad vs Ajax Odds
Looking at the odds for this intriguing Europa League clash between Real Sociedad and Ajax, it’s clear that the bookmakers have a slight preference for the home team. With Real Sociedad urgently needing a win to boost their chances of progressing to the knockout stages, and their impressive home form as a key factor, the odds reflect their advantage. Meanwhile, Ajax, despite being in excellent form, is dealing with several key player absences, which are likely influencing the odds in Real Sociedad’s favor.
| Real Sociedad vs Ajax Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Real Sociedad | 1.94 |
| Draw | 3.48 |
| Ajax | 3.99 |
These odds suggest that while a Real Sociedad win is expected, Ajax’s b recent performances could make for an unpredictable and exciting match.
Real Sociedad vs Ajax Live Streaming – India
In India to watch the epic clash between Real Sociedad vs Ajax in the UEFA Europa League, fans can tune in to Sony Sports Network. OTT users can watch the match live on Sony LIV. Sony Sports 5 and Sony Sports 5HD will be telecasting it live.
Real Sociedad Team Analysis
Real Sociedad Recent Performance LWWLW
Real Sociedad’s recent performance has been a rollercoaster, marked by both highs and lows. Their form can be reviewed through their last five matches:
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Athletic Bilbao | Real Sociedad | 1-0 (Loss) |
| Jove Espanol | Real Sociedad | 0-5 (Win) |
| Real Sociedad | Barcelona | 1-0 (Win) |
| Viktoria Plzen | Real Sociedad | 2-1 (Loss) |
| Sevilla | Real Sociedad | 0-2 (Win) |
Their recent form includes three clean sheets in their last five games, showcasing their b defensive capabilities. Real Sociedad have averaged 1.80 goals per game over this period. Despite inconsistency in the broader season, this string of performances highlights their potential. Their win against Barcelona especially stands out, indicating their ability to perform under pressure when it matters most.
Real Sociedad Key Players
Real Sociedad will be relying heavily on their top performers as they face a formidable Ajax side. Key players to watch include:
- Mikel Oyarzabal: The forward will be crucial up front, aiming to capitalize on Ajax’s defensive gaps.
- Takefusa Kubo: His creativity and pace on the wing can trouble Ajax’s full-backs.
- Martín Zubimendi: Anchoring the midfield, his ability to break up plays and distribute will be pivotal.
Expected lineup for Real Sociedad:
- Goalkeeper: Alex Remiro
- Defenders: Jon Aramburu, Igor Zubeldia, Nayef Aguerd, Aihen Muñoz
- Midfielders: Martín Zubimendi, Luka Sucic, Brais Méndez
- Attackers: Takefusa Kubo, Sheraldo Becker, Mikel Oyarzabal
With key battles set to unfold across the pitch, particularly between Oyarzabal and Ajax’s central defenders, Real Sociedad will need their stars to shine brightly.
Real Sociedad Suspensions & Injuries
Real Sociedad comes into this pivotal Europa League match with a few significant injury concerns that could influence their game plan against Ajax.
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Hamari Traore | Cruciate ligament injury | Out for season |
| Orri Steinn Óskarsson | Muscle injury | Doubtful |
| Álvaro Odriozola | Muscle injury | Early December 2024 |
| Urko González de Zárate | Muscle injury | Early December 2024 |
The absence of Hamari Traore, who is out for the season with a cruciate ligament injury, is a significant blow to Real Sociedad’s defensive options. Additionally, the fitness doubts over Orri Steinn Óskarsson and Álvaro Odriozola exacerbate their woes, reducing depth and flexibility in the lineup.
| Player | Suspension | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| None | N/A | N/A |
The fact that Real Sociedad does not have any players suspended allows coach Imanol Alguacil to utilize his available resources fully. However, the impact of these injuries will require adjustments in the defensive strategy and the potential promotion of bench players to starting roles.
Real Sociedad Tactics and Formation
Real Sociedad Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-2-3-1
- Key Forward: Mikel Oyarzabal
- Midfield Duo: Martín Zubimendi, Luka Sucic
- Defensive Strength: Three clean sheets in the last five games
Imanol Alguacil typically employs a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on a possession-based game. The backline, composed of Jon Aramburu, Igor Zubeldia, Nayef Aguerd, and Aihen Muñoz, balances defensive solidity with the ability to support forward plays. Martín Zubimendi and Luka Sucic act as defensive midfielders, aiming to shield the backline and transition into attack quickly. The forward line, led by Mikel Oyarzabal, relies significantly on quick passing and combination plays, looking to exploit spaces left open by Ajax’s aggressive pressing game.
Ajax Team Analysis
Recent Performance WDWWW
Ajax has been in remarkable form recently, showcasing impressive consistency and clinical prowess. Their last five matches in all competitions have resulted in four victories and a draw, highlighting their dominance on the pitch.
- Average goals scored: 2.80
- Clean sheets: 3 in the last five games.
- Here is a breakdown of Ajax’s recent results:
- | Ajax | PEC Zwolle | 2-0 (Win) |
- | FC Twente | Ajax | 2-2 (Draw) |
- | Ajax | Maccabi Tel Aviv | 5-0 (Win) |
- | Ajax | PSV Eindhoven | 3-2 (Win) |
- | Feyenoord | Ajax | 0-2 (Win) |
- This form has been bolstered by their reliable defense and offensive depth, making them formidable opponents in the upcoming clash with Real Sociedad.
Ajax Key Players
Ajax will be relying on several key players to make a significant impact against Real Sociedad. Their top scorer in the Europa League, Mika Godts, has found the net three times this season; however, he will unfortunately miss this match due to a hamstring injury.
Expected lineup for Ajax:
- Goalkeeper: Remko Pasveer
- Defenders: Devyne Rensch, Josip Sutalo, Youri Baas, Jorrel Hato
- Midfielders: Kian Fitz-Jim, Jordan Henderson, Steven Berghuis
- Attackers: Bertrand Traore, Brian Brobbey, Chuba Akpom
These players, especially veterans like Jordan Henderson and Steven Berghuis, will need to step up. Watch out for the battle between Ajax’s forwards and Real Sociedad’s defense, particularly Nayef Aguerd and Igor Zubeldia.
Ajax Suspensions & Injuries
Ajax will face Real Sociedad with several key players missing due to injuries and suspensions. The absence of these players could significantly impact their performance and strategy for the match. Here’s a rundown of the affected players: Injuries
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Gaston Avila | Knee injury | Doubtful |
| Amourricho van Axel Dongen | Knock injury | Doubtful |
| Sivert Mannsverk | Ankle injury | Doubtful |
| Julian Rijkhoff | Knee injury | Doubtful |
| Mika Godts | Hamstring injury | Early December 2024 |
| Wout Weghorst | Flu | Early December 2024 |
| Suspensions | ||
| Player | Suspension | Expected return |
| —————— | —————————– | ————————- |
| Kenneth Taylor | Accumulated yellow cards | 1 match |
Ajax Tactics and Formation
Ajax’s Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-3-3
- Key Forward: Brian Brobbey
- Midfield Trio: Kian Fitz-Jim, Jordan Henderson, Steven Berghuis
- Defensive Strength: Three clean sheets in the last five games.
- Notable Strategy: High pressing and quick transitions.
Ajax rely heavily on their dynamic forward trio, with Brian Brobbey leading the attack. Their midfield, orchestrated by the experienced Jordan Henderson, focuses on controlling possession and distributing the ball efficiently. Their defense, though young, has shown resilience with three clean sheets in recent matches. Expect Ajax to employ high pressing tactics, aiming to disrupt Real Sociedad’s buildup and capitalize on quick counter-attacks. Francesco Farioli must balance attacking prowess with defensive solidity to secure a crucial away win.
Real Sociedad vs. Ajax Head-to-Head Statistics
These two teams have clashed on only one previous occasion:
| Home | Away | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Ajax | Real Sociedad | 3-1 |
Venue and Weather
Reale Arena is set to host this intriguing clash between Real Sociedad and Ajax. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, the stadium boasts a capacity of around 39,500, ensuring a lively backdrop for this crucial Europa League fixture.
The weather on match day is expected to be brisk, with a temperature of 6°C and scattered clouds. Humidity is at 81%, with a light wind speed of 1.99 m/s.
The cold and damp conditions could impact the players’ performance, potentially leading to a more cautious start from both sides. Real Sociedad, used to such weather, might leverage this as an advantage. Ajax, meanwhile, will need to adapt quickly to maintain their attacking prowess.
Editor's Pick
Cricket
Rishabh Pant to be KL Rahul's "perfect opening replacement" for LSG, after Sanjiv Goenka's blunder?
Top Stories
