Analysis
The veteran goalkeeper was controversially left out on the bench by coach Jose Mourinho. This decision instantly received heavy criticism from the media and supporters as the outcome of the match hardly helped Mourinho. On the pitch, the team lost 3-2 to Malaga only to offer a very cold festive season to Madridistas around the world.
In 2013, Real Madrid will be hoping to create much less controversy in the media and scoop much better results in all competitions.
Real Madrid cannot risk too much this weekend knowing that they have a crucial Copa del Rey match scheduled for next Wednesday on their list. It is not the size of their cup opponents, Celta Vigo, which is threatening but the score line.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored in Pontevedra but that did not prevent Los Blancos from suffering a 2-1 upset. They must overturn tables in the second leg but before that, they need to open their 2013 account on the right note.
Facts
• Real Sociedad have not conceded defeat in all competitions since their 1-0 loss to Espanyol on November 4, 2012.
• Out of the last seven rounds in the Spanish Primera Division, Real Sociedad (15) have bagged more points than Real Madrid (13).
• Real Madrid are without a win in their last three matches in all competitions.
• Real Sociedad are two points away from the Europa League zone.
• Real Madrid have won all their home matches in the league but two – against Valencia and Espanyol.
Head-to-head – Last four matches
September 18, 2010: Real Sociedad 1-2 Real Madrid
February 6, 2011: Real Madrid 4-1 Real Sociedad
October 29, 2011: Real Sociedad 0-1 Real Madrid
March 24, 2012: Real Madrid 5-1 Real Sociedad
Prediction
Result: Real Madrid 2-2 Real Sociedad
