In a commanding display at the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid secured a significant victory over Real Sociedad during the 24th round of the 2025-2026 La Liga season. The match unfolded as a crucial fixture for the hosts, who entered the encounter trailing league leaders Barcelona by a mere point, their tally standing at 57. Their opponents, positioned eighth in the standings with 31 points, sought a positive result to bolster their campaign.
The home side’s intent was clear from the outset, with Gonzalo García breaking the deadlock as early as the 5th minute. The goal was crafted from a precise cross delivered by English full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, setting the tone for a dominant performance. However, the early advantage was soon jeopardized when defender Den Hooijdonk committed a reckless challenge inside the penalty area. The referee’s whistle awarded a spot-kick to the visitors, which Mikel Oyarzabal duly converted past Thibaut Courtois in the 21st minute, momentarily silencing the Bernabéu.
Vinicius Junior Seizes the Moment
The equilibrium, however, was short-lived. The spotlight swiftly turned to Vinicius Junior, who embarked on a penetrating run from the left flank into the Sociedad penalty area. His incursion was halted by a foul, earning Real Madrid a penalty of their own. With Kylian Mbappé—the team’s usual penalty taker since his arrival from Paris Saint-Germain—absent from the starting lineup, the Brazilian winger reclaimed his former role as the primary executor. Demonstrating composure and technique, Vinicius restored his team’s lead from the spot in the 25th minute.
Momentum firmly in their grasp, Real Madrid extended their lead just six minutes later. Federico Valverde unleashed a masterful strike in the 31st minute, finding the back of the net and providing the home supporters with a more comfortable cushion. The first half concluded with the hosts in a commanding position.
The second half began with a familiar narrative. Once again, Vinicius Junior proved to be the tormentor for the Real Sociedad defense, driving into the box and drawing another foul. Stepping up to the penalty spot for the second time in the match, the Brazilian made no mistake, sealing his brace and Real Madrid’s fourth goal in the 48th minute. This performance underscored his pivotal role in the team’s attacking machinery, especially in the absence of the star French forward.