Real Sociedad - Valencia predictions and free betting tips [16/05/2024]

In the 36th round of the Spanish La Liga, Real Sociedad faces Valencia on Thursday, 16th May. The hosts are currently seventh in the table, vying for a finish in the European competition zone, while Los Che are only six points away and must win at any cost

Real Sociedad

On Monday evening, Real Sociedad dropped to 6th place in the table after losing 2-0 to Barcelona, allowing Real Betis to move ahead. In the first half, Lamine Yamal scored, and in the dying moments, Raphinha converted a penalty. The Basques have had a tough May, winning only once in their last five matches, including defeats to Barcelona and Real Madrid (0-1). Upcoming fixtures against Valencia, Betis, and Atletico Madrid pose significant challenges, yet a victory on Thursday could almost ensure a European slot for the hosts. Of note, the white-and-blues rank only 10th in points accumulated at home (27 in 17 matches, 25 goals scored, 18 conceded). 

Fans can't be happy with the fact that their favourites have kept a clean sheet just once in the last five rounds. Injury woes continue with Mikel Merino, Carlos Fernandez, Atletico Madrid loanee Javi Galan, Munoz (out for the season), Zubeldia (2 assists in 30 matches), and Mikel Oyarzabal (4 goals). Expected to start are Oyarzabal (9 goals, 2 assists), Japan's Kubo (7 goals, 3 assists), and midfielders Brais Mendez (4 goals, 6 assists) and Mikel Merino (4 goals, 3 assists). Alguacil may look to refresh the line-up after the Barcelona defeat, with Kieran Tierney and Ander Barrenetxea pushing for starting spots

Valencia

Valencia, eighth in the table, must win on Thursday night to keep their hopes of finishing in the top seven alive. Recently, the six-time Spanish champions have struggled: winless in four straight league matches, including defeats to Betis (1-2), a thrashing by Barcelona following the goalkeeper's red card (4-2), and a failure against Alaves (0-1). Last weekend, they drew 0-0 with Rayo Vallecano despite numerous scoring chances. On the road, Valencia rank 12th in points accumulation, with 18 points in 17 away games (18 goals scored, 28 conceded). 

The Bats have scored just twice in their last six away fixtures. They will be without backup keeper Jaume Domenech, defensive midfielder Diakhaby, Fran Perez (1 goal, 4 assists), and Jesus Vazquez (1 goal in 20 matches) due to injuries. Nevertheless, the coaching staff can rely on their main players: forward Hugo Duro (13 goals), midfielders Javi Guerra (4 goals) and Pepelu (6 goals). Andre Almeida, benched against Rayo, might return to the starting XI, while captain Jose Gaya, back from injury, will make his first appearance in two months. Mamardashvili will start in goal, with Ozkacar and Mosquera fortifying the defence.

Head-to-Head

Real Sociedad won the first leg with a narrow margin (0-1), while four of the last five meetings ended in draws.

Match Prediction: Real Sociedad vs Valencia

Both teams are struggling in the league and are desperately in need of three points. A win for Valencia would reignite their battle for 7th place, while Sociedad still aims for a Europa League spot. Home support could provide the vital boost needed for the white-and-blues, especially considering Valencia's poor away form. Prediction: A triumph for Alguacil's men.