LaLiga4Sports
TUE 12.04.2016
It takes a perfect performance to beat FC Barcelona. All your weapons need to click in order for you to score against them, but that counts for nothing if you are unable to smother their firepower. Real Sociedad did just that. They contained the Azulgranas thanks to a mammoth team effort, although they were indebted to Geronimo Rulli exhibiting his full repertoire along the way.
Only Espanyol had prevented Barça from scoring previously
However, before digging in and showing their defensive discipline and organisation, Eusebio's men first found a way past Claudio Bravo. They did so early on, striking from one of their first attacks, in a manner that appeared to be part of their pre-match game plan. Mikel Oyarzabal ghosted into the box and sent a looping header into the net from Xabi Prieto's cross.
This begs the question: just why did Oyarzabal find himself in the position to sneak into the area undetected?
In the opening exchanges, when La Real were forced to sit back and soak up the pressure while Barcelona took the initiative, Eusebio's side lined up as follows:
Oyarzabal dutifully worked the left channel, slotting in on that side of a five-man midfield through which the Basque team bid to stifle their Catalan opponents' passing game. In addition, the Eibar-born starlet was tasked with springing forward to join Carlos Vela up front when La Real won the ball back and looked to counter-attack.
Oyarzabal recorded more shots (2) and recoveries (8) than any of his teammates
The 18-year-old's exertions proved instrumental as Real Sociedad claimed a big scalp. He demonstrated his ability to knuckle down and plug gaps intelligently when required to defend against Dani Alves, as well as serving up a masterclass in off-the-ball movement in attack.
As for his finish for the goal, well, it spoke for itself.
Sigue toda la actualidad de la Real Sociedad.
© LALIGA - 2016
