Celta — Real Sociedad : Match Preview and Prediction for October 19,2025

Celta’s Persistent Winless Streak

Celta holds the unenviable distinction of being the sole team across both EA Sports and Hypermotion (formerly Primera and Segunda Divisions) still searching for their inaugural victory this season. With eight rounds played and zero wins, this is more than just a statistic; it’s a clear diagnostic indicator of their current form. The team has notably drawn six of their eight matches, underscoring a consistent inability to convert promising positions into decisive wins.

Struggling to Convert Dominance

A prime example of their struggles is their recent encounter with Atlético Madrid. Celta demonstrated clear dominance with 59% possession, registered 18 shots to Madrid’s 6, and boasted an Expected Goals (xG) figure of 1.95 against their opponent’s 0.30. Despite these impressive metrics, the match concluded in yet another 1-1 draw. The team consistently crafts scoring opportunities and controls the flow of the game, but they critically fail to translate this initiative into favorable results.

Defensive Frailties and Squad Issues

Furthermore, Celta’s defensive line is a significant area of concern. They have not managed to keep a single clean sheet throughout this season, conceding in every game they’ve played. Adding to these defensive woes are considerable personnel problems: Williot Swedberg, Mihailo Ristic, and Joel Lago are all out with injuries. These key absences undoubtedly weaken an already challenged and relatively shallow squad.

Underperforming Yet Potentially Explosive

Indeed, Real Sociedad currently resides at the very bottom of the league table. However, it’s crucial not to be misled by these statistics. Even Celta’s coach, Claudio Giráldez, has acknowledged that the Basque side has merited significantly more points and possesses “immense attacking potential.” The team is undeniably playing below its true capabilities, and a pivotal turnaround, potentially in this match, could be on the horizon.

Key Defensive and Midfield Reinforcements

Significantly, Real Sociedad enters this fixture with crucial reinforcements. Defenders Aritz Elustondo and Jon Martin are making their return to the squad, which is expected to bring a much-needed sense of order and increased stability to their backline. Furthermore, Venezuelan midfielder Yangel Herrera is poised to make his debut, with expectations high that he will introduce vital balance and strength to the central midfield area.

Consistent Attacking Threat

Despite the absences of Takefusa Kubo and Orri Oskarsson, Real Sociedad maintains a potent attacking threat. Mikel Oyarzabal, in particular, has proven to be a recurring problem for Celta, having scored 8 goals against them – a testament to the Galician club being his favored opponent. Moreover, the Basque team consistently leads the league in the number of corners, which translates into a perpetual danger for opposing defenses, especially against a team that struggles to keep a clean sheet.