Match Summary
Real Sociedad defeated Ajax 2:0. The match was played in UEFA Europa League 2024. Goals were scored by Barrenetxea 67′, T. Kubo 85′. 5 yellow cards were shown. Real Sociedad had 53% possession while Ajax held 47%. Real Sociedad had 12 shots (3 on target) compared to 12 (3 on target) for Ajax. Expected goals: Real Sociedad 2.04 — Ajax 0.70. Real Sociedad made 5 substitutions, Ajax made 5.
Match Events
Key match events between Real Sociedad and Ajax — 2 goals and 5 cards recorded during the match.
assist: T. Kubo
Match Statistics
Real Sociedad had 53% possession against Ajax's 47%. Real Sociedad registered 12 shots (3 on target) while Ajax managed 12 (3 on target). Corner kicks: 5–4. Fouls committed: 20–17.
Lineups
Real Sociedad lined up in a 4-3-3 formation under Imanol Alguacil, while Ajax deployed a 4-3-3 under F. Farioli.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Real Sociedad is 6.77, compared to 6.85 for Ajax. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Real Sociedad's highest-rated starter is T. Kubo (7.13), while Ajax's best-rated player is J. Šutalo (6.85).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Real Sociedad have contributed 9 goals and 7 assists this season, led by Brais Méndez (5G). Ajax's starters account for 0 goals and 0 assists, spearheaded by —. Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Real Sociedad deploy 4 defenders rated 6.55 on average, against Ajax's 4-man backline averaging 6.85. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Real Sociedad field 3 midfielders averaging 6.84, versus Ajax's 3 rated —. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Real Sociedad start 3 forward(s) averaging 7.13, compared to 3 for Ajax averaging —. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages 81% for Real Sociedad and 90% for Ajax. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Real Sociedad's starters have collected 15 yellow cards this season, compared to 1 for Ajax. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Real Sociedad's starting XI is 27.4 (youngest: L. Sučić (23), oldest: Aritz Elustondo (31)), while Ajax average 25.0 (youngest: J. Šutalo (25), oldest: J. Šutalo (25)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Real Sociedad's starters average 19 league appearances each, versus 19 for Ajax. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Real Sociedad have recorded 3 wins, 1 draws and 2 defeats. Ajax show 2 wins, 3 draws and 1 losses from their last 6 outings.
Real Sociedad
Ajax
API data: 15 Mar 2026