Injuries a big factor as Real Madrid visit Real Sociedad
Real Madrid travels to San Sebastian on Saturday to face Real Sociedad in the fifth round of games in La Liga in a game that will be influenced by a long list of injuries for both sides.
Real Madrid travels to San Sebastian on Saturday to face Real Sociedad in the fifth round of games in La Liga in a game that will be influenced by a long list of injuries for both sides.
The Spanish La Liga has no time for a pause as this week sees the 36th round of matches, with plenty still to play for and three games on Tuesday night.
Aleksander Isak wasted no time in equalising for the hosts, who forced Marc Andre Ter Stegen into some fine saves and saw a second-half goal ruled out for offside, reports DPA.
Frenkie de Jong or Miralem Pjanic might fill the void in midfield left by Sergio Busquets' dismissal in the disappointing goalless tie that Barca played to open the new campaign, while Jordi Alba struggled last week and Balde might be given a chance.
The Gabonese striker headed home a good cross from teammate Ferran Torres in the 11th minute of the game. The goalscoring attempt was their only shot on target throughout the entire game.
The result leaves Real Madrid five points less than league leaders Atletico Madrid and at joint thrd with arch rivals Barcelona.
Manchester United were inspired by Portuguese midfielder Bruno Fernandes on Thursday night, as he has been doing ever since his arrival.
The surprising leaders of the ongoing season of La Liga, Real Sociedad, had lost in all their previous 24 visits to Barcelona.
It is thought that the medical staff at Barcelona would prefer Umtiti to have an operation to try and resolve the problems which have dogged him for the past two seasons, but the 26-year-old has so far refused that option.
Lionel Messi's 24th goal of the season, and fifth in four games, was enough to save Barca, despite a drab display that threatened to bring disappointment.
