Real Sociedad – Real Madrid: Sociedad And Madrid Play Out A Frustrating Stalemate (0-0)

Real Madrid's clash with Real Sociedad was billed as the star fixture of the second matchday of LaLiga football. The guests controlled proceedings through their pressing and possession in their 4-2-3-1 shape, pinning back their opponents for much of the game. However, attacks petered out in the final third, as Madrid searched for a new rhythm with a returning member to their offensive cast.

Tactical analysis by Emmanuel Adeyemi-Abere.

Real Sociedad came into this season off the back of an enthralling conclusion to the previous league campaign. Though an abysmal run of post-lockdown form threatened to sour their hard work, the home team managed to salvage Europa League football from the jaws of defeat. Now bracing for life without Martin Ødegaard, this fixture offered an opportunity to evaluate the hosts' future prospects.

Thanks to their stellar run of results after LaLiga's resumption, Real Madrid clinched their first league title in three years. Now aiming to hold onto their domestic crown, this matchup was a chance for the guests to lay down the gauntlet to their rivals.

Imanol Alguacil set up the hosts in a 4-3-3 shape. The manager also made three changes to the team that drew against Real Valladolid on the last matchday. Robin Le Normand partnered Aritz Elustondo at center-back ahead of Diego Llorente, while Mikel Oyarzabal and Ander Guevara joined Mikel Merino in midfield.

Zinedine Zidane lined up his side in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Without any . . .