Celta Vigo will look to solidify their grip on a Europa League spot when they host an out-of-form Real Sociedad at Balaídos on Tuesday evening. With just three matches remaining in the La Liga season, both sides have everything to play for, albeit for very different reasons.
Celta’s European Ambitions
Celta Vigo are currently seventh in the standings, holding a narrow two-point lead over Rayo Vallecano. A win here would not only extend that gap but bring them one step closer to a coveted Europa League return, their first since the memorable 2016–17 campaign when they reached the semifinals.
Claudio Giraldez’s squad approaches the fixture in high spirits following a thrilling 3-2 win over Sevilla. Their home form has been a key strength this season, accumulating an impressive 36 points from 18 games. However, inconsistency on the road remains a concern, which makes their home performances crucial in securing continental qualification.
Real Sociedad’s Struggles and Transition
For Real Sociedad, it’s been a campaign to forget. The Basque side sits 12th in the table after a 4-0 drubbing by Atletico Madrid, marking five games without a win. With just 32 goals scored in 35 matches and only 12 wins, the season has fallen short of expectations.
However, the mathematical possibility of European football isn’t off the table yet. Sitting four points behind eighth and six behind Celta, a win on Tuesday could reignite their hopes with only two games remaining. That said, changes are on the horizon, with manager Imanol Alguacil departing and midfield anchor Martin Zubimendi heavily linked with a move to Arsenal, the club is poised for a rebuild this summer.
Team Form and Tactical Setup
Celta aims to complete a league double over Real Sociedad, having won the reverse fixture 2-0. Last season’s corresponding meeting ended in a 1-1 draw, and Tuesday’s clash promises another tight contest.
The hosts are expected to welcome back Borja Iglesias to the starting XI after his goal-scoring cameo against Sevilla. Fran Beltran is also in contention for a midfield role, while Javi Rodriguez could step in due to Marcos Alonso’s suspension.
Real Sociedad, meanwhile, will make several changes following their heavy defeat at the Metropolitano. Arsen Zakharyan remains sidelined with a thigh issue, and both Sheraldo Becker and Orri Oskarsson are fitness doubts. Expect starts for Hamari Traore and Brais Mendez, while Sergio Gomez could earn a midfield slot.
Projected Lineups
Celta Vigo:
Guaita; Mingueza, Lago, Dominguez, J. Rodriguez; Duran, Moriba, Beltran, Swedberg, Aspas; Iglesias
Real Sociedad:
Remiro; Traore, Martin, Elustondo, J. Lopez; Kubo, Mendez, Zubimendi, Martin, Gomez; Oyarzabal
Prediction
Despite Real Sociedad’s urgency, Celta’s superior form and home advantage give them the edge. A draw could be on the cards, but the hosts may just sneak it.
Prediction: Celta Vigo 2-1 Real Sociedad
