Real Sociedad vs. FC Midtjylland Prediction, Preview and Tips, 20/02/2025
As the Europa League Round of 16 kicks off, Real Sociedad hosts FC Midtjylland at Reale Arena. This match is pivotal, especially since it follows their tight 2-1 win in Denmark. Both teams are vying for progress in the competition, making this a crucial encounter.
Real Sociedad, seventh in La Liga, has shown mixed form, winning three of their last five games (LWWWL). Notably, Takefusa Kubo and Brais Mendez have been key goal-scorers. Meanwhile, FC Midtjylland are second in the Danish Superliga, reflecting their b domestic form (WLWDW).
Weather conditions are expected to be challenging with overcast skies and a chill in the air, which could impact play. Serdar Gozubuyuk will be the referee, adding to the match’s intensity.
With each team showcasing attacking prowess, we predict over 2.5 goals for this clash, an intriguing matchup full of potential.
Recommended bet: Over 2.5 goals.
Real Sociedad vs. FC Midtjylland Prediction & Betting tip
| Real Sociedad vs. FC Midtjylland Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting tip | Odds |
| Over 2.5 Goals | 1.96 |
- Both teams have demonstrated attacking prowess, with Real Sociedad averaging 1.40 goals in their last 5 games and FC Midtjylland averaging 1.60 goals.
- Given the previous encounter ended 2-1 in favor of Real Sociedad, the teams have shown they can generate scoring opportunities against each other.
- With Real Sociedad needing to bounce back after a recent league loss and Midtjylland’s b form, an open, high-scoring match is possible.
Books and form trends both point towards plenty of action on the scoresheet.
Real Sociedad vs. FC Midtjylland Odds
| Real Sociedad vs. FC Midtjylland Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Real Sociedad | 1.49 |
| Draw | 4.27 |
| FC Midtjylland | 6.42 |
These odds clearly favor the home team, Real Sociedad, highlighting their superior form and home advantage. Their away win in the first leg (2-1) further boosts their confidence.
FC Midtjylland, despite being the underdogs, demonstrated resilience and could potentially surprise if they capitalize on their attacking capabilities.
With Real Sociedad needing to assert control and Midtjylland eager to overturn the deficit, bettors can expect a thrilling contest. The draw option also holds value, especially given the b defensive records of both teams.
Real Sociedad Team Analysis
Real Sociedad Recent Performance LWWWL
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Real Betis | Real Sociedad | 3-0 (Loss) |
| FC Midtjylland | Real Sociedad | 1-2 (Win) |
| Real Sociedad | Espanyol | 2-1 (Win) |
| Real Sociedad | Osasuna | 2-0 (Win) |
| Osasuna | Real Sociedad | 2-1 (Loss) |
Recent Form: LWWWL
Real Sociedad has shown a mixed bag of results in their last five matches. They have averaged 1.40 goals per game but have only kept one clean sheet. Their standout win came against FC Midtjylland in the first leg, setting a positive tone for this return match. Despite a heavy league loss to Real Betis, victories over Espanyol and Osasuna demonstrate their potential to bounce back.
Real Sociedad Key Players
Real Sociedad’s attacking prowess will be on display with the likes of Takefusa Kubo and Mikel Oyarzabal. Kubo, who netted in the first leg, will be expected to use his creativity and pace to trouble FC Midtjylland’s defense. Oyarzabal, another key figure, will aim to make a significant impact in the forward line.
Brais Méndez, who also scored in the first leg, will play a crucial role in the midfield, especially with Martín Zubimendi suspended. Igor Zubeldia, expected to anchor the midfield, will be essential in maintaining stability.
Expected lineup for Real Sociedad:
- Goalkeeper: Unai Marrero
- Defenders: Javier López Carballo, Aritz Elustondo, Nayef Aguerd, Aihen Muñoz
- Midfielders: Igor Zubeldia, Brais Méndez, Jon Ander Olasagasti
- Attackers: Takefusa Kubo, Orri Steinn Óskarsson, Mikel Oyarzabal
Real Sociedad Suspensions & Injuries
Real Sociedad will be missing some key players due to suspensions and injuries, which could impact their performance against FC Midtjylland. The absences in defense and midfield are particularly concerning.
| Player | Suspension | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Martín Zubimendi | Yellow cards (1 match) | 20/02/2025 |
| Jon Aramburu | Yellow cards (1 match) | 20/02/2025 |
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
| —————– | ————————— | —————— |
| Hamari Traore | Cruciate ligament injury | Out for season |
| Jon Pacheco | Muscle injury | Late February 2025 |
The suspension of Martín Zubimendi and Jon Aramburu means coach Imanol Alguacil will need to adjust his defensive setup. Additionally, the absence of Hamari Traore for the season and Jon Pacheco until late February could result in less stability at the back.
These absences highlight the importance of other squad members stepping up to fill the void and maintain the team’s competitive edge.
Real Sociedad Tactics and Formation
Real Sociedad Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-3-3
- Key Forwards: Takefusa Kubo, Mikel Oyarzabal
- Midfield Trio: Igor Zubeldia, Brais Méndez, Jon Ander Olasagasti
- Defensive Setup: Aihen Muñoz, Nayef Aguerd, Aritz Elustondo, Javier López Carballo
Real Sociedad will aim to dominate possession and dictate the tempo of the game, utilizing their b midfield duo of Igor Zubeldia and Brais Méndez to control the center. Takefusa Kubo and Mikel Oyarzabal are expected to provide the attacking threat, cutting in from the wings to create scoring opportunities. With recent defensive absences, they’ll need to maintain a compact backline, relying heavily on their center-backs to keep FC Midtjylland’s Adam Buksa in check.
FC Midtjylland Team Analysis
FC Midtjylland Recent Performance WLWDW
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| FC Midtjylland | Lyngby | 1-0 (Win) |
| FC Midtjylland | Real Sociedad | 1-2 (Loss) |
| FC Midtjylland | Vejle Boldklub | 2-1 (Win) |
| FC Midtjylland | Fenerbahce | 2-2 (Draw) |
| Ludogorets Razgrad | FC Midtjylland | 0-2 (Win) |
FC Midtjylland’s recent form has been solid, posting a WLWDW record in their last five games. The team has maintained good defensive discipline, achieving 2 clean sheets in this span. They have been fairly prolific in front of goal, averaging 1.6 goals per game over their last five matches.
Midtjylland’s attacking unit, led by Adam Buksa, has shown they can breach defenses consistently, which will be key in the upcoming match. Their resilience and ability to secure positive results on the road, as seen in their 2-0 win against Ludogorets, are notable strengths.
FC Midtjylland Key Players
Expected lineup for FC Midtjylland:
- Goalkeeper: Jonas Lössl
- Defenders: Joel Andersson, Ousmane Diao, Mads Bech Sørensen, Paulinho
- Midfielders: Denil Castillo, Daniel Silva, Valdemar Byskov Andreasen
- Attackers: Darío Osorio, Adam Buksa, Aral Simsir
Adam Buksa stands out as Midtjylland’s key attacking threat, having scored a goal in recent matches. His duel with Real Sociedad’s Nayef Aguerd could be pivotal.
Midfielder Daniel Silva’s playmaking abilities will be crucial in creating scoring opportunities. Defensively, Mads Bech Sørensen must anchor the defence effectively to handle Real Sociedad’s forwards, like Mikel Oyarzabal.
Expect intense struggles across the pitch, especially with Daniel Silva facing Real Sociedad’s Jon Ander Olasagasti in midfield.
FC Midtjylland Suspensions & Injuries
Injuries
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Kristoffer Olsson | Illness | Doubtful |
| Gue-sung Cho | Knee injury | Doubtful |
| Oliver Sørensen | Unknown | Mid-March 2025 |
Suspensions
| Player | Suspension | Expected return |
|---|
Injuries are starting to pile up for FC Midtjylland, which could significantly impact their performance against Real Sociedad. Kristoffer Olsson and Gue-sung Cho are both doubtful due to illness and a knee injury, respectively. Oliver Sørensen’s unknown injury means he won’t be back until mid-March.
These absentees will challenge Thomas Thomasberg’s squad depth and may demand tactical adjustments to fill the gaps, especially in midfield and attack where Olsson and Cho normally play pivotal roles. The team will need to rally and make the most out of available players in this crucial fixture.
FC Midtjylland Tactics and Formation
FC Midtjylland’s Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-3-3
- Key Forward: Adam Buksa
- Midfield Trio: Denil Castillo, Daniel Silva, Valdemar Byskov Andreasen
- Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games.
- Notable Strategy: Strong attack during the 61-75 minute interval.
Thomas Thomasberg is likely to stick with a 4-3-3 formation, looking to utilize the attacking prowess of Adam Buksa upfront. The midfield trio of Castillo, Silva, and Byskov will be instrumental in both defense and creating opportunities. This combination is designed to maintain possession and break up the opponent’s play.
Defensively, the team will rely on their backline, led by Mads Bech Sørensen, to continue their solid form. With recent injuries and suspensions, maintaining their shape and discipline will be crucial.
Expect FC Midtjylland to target counter-attacks and exploit any defensive lapses, especially in the second half, where they have historically been effective.
Real Sociedad vs. FC Midtjylland Head-to-Head Statistics
The two sides have only met once recently, with Real Sociedad coming out on top.
| Home | Away | Result |
|---|---|---|
| FC Midtjylland | Real Sociedad | 1-2 |
In their lone encounter on 13 February 2025, Real Sociedad emerged victorious. This match serves as a recent reference point for both teams, with Real Sociedad holding a slight edge.
Given their previous result, expect FC Midtjylland to be keen on reversing the outcome while Real Sociedad aims to maintain their winning momentum.
Venue and Weather
The match is set to take place at the Reale Arena, home to Real Sociedad. The stadium boasts a seating capacity of around 39,500 and creates an electric atmosphere for home games. Known for its modern facilities, the Reale Arena is one of the more impressive venues in Spain’s Basque region.
The weather forecast for 20 February 2025 suggests overcast clouds with a temperature of 4°C. Humidity is high at 90% and the wind speed is quite low at 1.58 m/s, meaning the conditions will be cold and damp.
Both teams will need to adapt their playing styles to cope with the overcast weather. FC Midtjylland, preferring direct football, might have an edge, while Real Sociedad will rely on their crisp passing game to navigate tricky conditions.
