This article contains affiliate links to advertisers. The analysis is independent. Gamble responsibly, 18+
Real Sociedad head into this fixture with a more balanced recent record against FC Barcelona than usual, having won two of their last six league meetings after managing just one victory in the previous 16. Even so, the Catalans generally perform well at Anoeta: they've picked up points in eight of their last nine league visits, with six wins and two draws, although they did lose the most recent one in November 2024.
Since the start of the 21st century, Barcelona have lost seven of their 21 LaLiga matches at the Donostia stadium, a venue where they've suffered more away defeats than any other stadium apart from the Santiago Bernabéu.
The current form of both sides also sets the tone for the match. Real Sociedad are winless in their last three home games in LaLiga and have shown vulnerability before half-time, conceding eight goals in the final 15 minutes of first half's this season.
Barcelona arrive in top form, with nine consecutive league wins—their best run at present and the longest since 2016 - and lead the league in goals from corners in 2025/26 with six. Takefusa Kubo has been involved in three goals in his last three league appearances, while Ferran Torres has scored 11 goals in 18 matches, his best tally in a single season.
On the home bench, Pellegrino Matarazzo remains unbeaten after two games and is aiming for a third match without defeat, something only three Real Sociedad managers have achieved in LaLiga this century.
Real Sociedad v Barcelona Tips (Sunday, 20:00 GMT)
Barcelona to score in both halves - 1/1 @ bet365
Barcelona to have 5 or more shots on target - 4/7 @ bet365
Remiro to make 3 or more saves - 8/13 @ bet365
Odds correct at the time of writing and subject to change.
A champion in front of goal
Barcelona come into this match with the most sustained attacking threat throughout the 90 minutes in the league, backed by a run of nine straight LaLiga wins. Their goal threat isn't limited to one phase of the game, and set pieces have been a constant source of danger, with six goals scored from corners this season - more than any other team in the league. On top of that, the form of players like Ferran Torres, who has netted 11 times in 18 league games, increases the likelihood of the Catalans finding the net at different stages of the match.
Up against them is a Real Sociedad side that have shown clear weaknesses at key moments, especially just before the break, a period in which they've conceded eight goals in LaLiga 2025/26. Although the Donostia outfit have improved their defensive organisation at home, that vulnerability late in the first half gives Barcelona a clear opportunity to strike early. Add to that the momentum of the league leaders and their tendency to keep up the pressure after the interval, and the stage is set for the visitors to score in both halves.
Tip: Barcelona to score in both halves - 1/1 @ bet365
Bet Explanation: This bet wins if Barça score in both the first and second half.
Pressure against a struggling defence
The match context points to Barcelona dominating in the opposition half. Their current run, with back-to-back wins and high attacking confidence, usually translates into a steady stream of chances. Even away at a tough ground like the Reale Arena, the Catalans have picked up points in eight of their last nine league visits, showing they're regularly a threat near the hosts' box. That competitive consistency is often accompanied by multiple shots on target.
Real Sociedad, although more organised at this stage, have endured difficult defensive spells during matches, especially when forced to sit deep. Barcelona's individual quality and ability to create danger both in open play and from set pieces increase the number of clear shooting opportunities. In a scenario where the leaders dominate possession and rack up chances, getting five or more shots on target looks well within reach.
Tip: Barcelona to have 5 or more shots on target - 4/7 @ bet365
Bet Explanation: This bet wins if the away side registers 5 or more shots on target.
Attacking Threat = Busy Keeper
The expectation of an attacking Barcelona has a direct impact on the home goalkeeper. If the Catalans maintain their usual tempo and number of chances, Álex Remiro is likely to be called into action frequently. The Real Sociedad keeper often takes centre stage against teams who dominate possession and shots, and this match is set to be one of those, with the visitors in form and determined to impose their style from the outset. So far, the Donostia-born stopper averages 2.06 saves per game this season, an average that could rise in this game.
Moreover, Barcelona have shown impressive finishing this season, forcing opposition goalkeepers to work hard even when the scoreline remains unchanged. With shots from distance, efforts after corners and chances created by in-form attackers, Remiro should face enough attempts on goal to reach, or even surpass, the three saves needed for this bet to come in.
Tip: Remiro to make 3 or more saves - 8/13 @ bet365
Bet Explanation: This bet wins if the Real Sociedad goalkeeper makes 3 or more saves.
Odds Real Sociedad v Barcelona
Real Sociedad win - 4/1 @ bet365
Barcelona win - 11/20 @ bet365
Odds correct at the time of writing and subject to change.
Discover the best betting bonuses
If you want to make the most of LaLiga matches for your bets, Flashscore makes it easy. On our betting bonuses page, you'll find some of the best promotions and bonus codes available.
Odds correct at the time of writing and subject to change.