In an electrifying match that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Real Sociedad secured a 2-1 victory over Barcelona on January 18, 2026, at the Reale Arena. This stunning result marked the end of Barcelona's impressive nine-game winning streak in La Liga and their 11-game winning streak across all competitions.
The match was a roller-coaster of emotions for both sets of fans. Real Sociedad took the lead in the 32nd minute when Mikel Oyarzabal scored a decisive goal from the left side of the six-yard box. Despite Barcelona's efforts to equalize, Real Sociedad maintained their lead until the 57th minute when Marcus Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, scored a goal for Barcelona. However, Real Sociedad's resilience paid off as Goncalo Guedes scored the winning goal in the 76th minute.
Barcelona, who had been leading the La Liga table with a remarkable 16 wins out of 19 games, suffered a setback that brought them back down to earth. Real Sociedad, currently in 13th position, showed great determination and tactical prowess, especially after Carlos Soler received a red card in the 88th minute for a late challenge on Pedri. Despite being a man down, Real Sociedad held on to their lead and secured a crucial victory.
The match was not just about the final score but also about the individual performances. Lamine Yamal, a young star for Barcelona, put on a stellar performance, but his efforts were overshadowed by the team's overall loss. The teen shone brightly, but it was not enough to turn the tide in Barcelona's favor. The defeat leaves Barcelona just one point ahead of Real Madrid in the La Liga standings.
This victory for Real Sociedad is a testament to their fighting spirit and tactical acumen. They managed to contain Barcelona's attacking prowess and capitalize on their chances, proving that they are a force to be reckoned with in the league. For Barcelona, this loss serves as a wake-up call, reminding them that every match in La Liga is a battle and that complacency can lead to unexpected defeats.
As the season progresses, both teams will look to bounce back from this match with renewed determination. Real Sociedad will aim to climb higher in the standings, while Barcelona will strive to regain their winning momentum. Fans can expect more thrilling matches as these two teams continue to battle it out in one of the most competitive leagues in the world.
