Celta Vigo - Real Sociedad predictions and free betting tips [20/01/2024]

On Saturday, 20th January, as part of the 21st round of Spain's La Liga, Celta Vigo will host Real Sociedad on home turf. The home squad is positioned 16th in the league table, holding 17 points, whilst Real Sociedad sits sixth overall, trailing nine points from the Champions League qualifier zone.

Predicted Line-ups

Celta Vigo: Guaita; Mingueza, Jailson, U Nunez, Dominguez, Sanchez; Perez, Tapia, Dotor; Aspas, Larsen.
Real Sociedad: Remiro; Odriozola, Zubeldia, Le Normand, Tierney; Mendez, Zubimendi, Merino; Zakharyan, Oyarzabal, Barrenetxea.

Stadium

The contest will be held in Vigo at the Balaidos stadium.

Celta Vigo

Celta Vigo last week secured its passage to the Copa del Rey quarterfinals following a 3:1 triumph over Valencia at Mestalla, a result that came as a surprise to many given the team's regular La Liga missteps; occupying 16th place in the table, merely two points clear of the relegation zone. The Sky Blues secured an away 1:1 draw in Palma De Mallorca in the previous fixture, extending their unbeaten run to four matches.

The Rafa Benitez's charges have suffered only one loss in their last ten matches in all competitions. However, the team will host two home matches against Real Sociedad and Girona by the end of the month, despite the fact that they rank third from bottom in La Liga for home games (earning only 10 points in 10 matches). 

Real Sociedad

Despite defeating Osasuna (0:2) to reach the quarter finals of the Copa del Rey, Real Sociedad has been somewhat off pace in recent weeks. Last weekend, a defeat in the derby against Athletic Bilbao (2:1) at San Mames caused alarm even among the most loyal Real Sociedad fans, especially after they had resoundingly defeated the same rival at home earlier in the season (3:0).

Head-to-head Record

In the first round the two teams played out a draw (1:1), and Celta Vigo has been unable to defeat Real Sociedad in their last 7 encounters.

Match Prediction: Celta Vigo vs Real Sociedad

Celta Vigo is gradually picking up form following a poor season start, and has been edging away from the relegation zone in recent weeks. Conversely, Real Sociedad, after a demanding autumn calendar, has lost steam, securing just two victories in seven outings. Considering the absence of key striker Kubo from the visitor's lineup, it's reasonable to predict the home team not losing.

Total Goals Prediction

Real Sociedad has managed just 5 goals in the last five fixtures - and it's unlikely they'll fare much better in Vigo. I predict the Basques will score fewer than 1.5 goals.

Corners Prediction

Neither side is known for their prowess in set-piece situations, averaging just over 4 corners per match. I predict fewer than 9.5 total corners.

Yellow Cards Prediction

From a tactical standpoint, a stalemate would suit Celta Vigo, suggesting they may frequently disrupt their opponent's momentum with fouls. Hence, I envisage Celta Vigo won't lose out in yellow cards.

Final Score Prediction

I'm betting on a 1:1 draw.