Real Sociedad will aim to end Barcelona’s 11-game winning streak across all competitions at the Anoeta Stadium on Sunday.
Sociedad registered a 2-1 win at Getafe last time out, while Barcelona claimed a 2-0 victory at Espanyol in their last league fixture.
Match preview
Sociedad have endured a poor start to the season, collecting just 21 points in 19 matches. They have won just three of their home games.
However, La Real defeated Barcelona in the corresponding fixture last term and could draw inspiration from that performance to prevent a defeat here.
Sociedad may look to exploit Barcelona’s high defensive line, although their ability to be clinical in front of goal while keeping things tight at the back will be crucial.
Hansi Flick’s side arrive at this clash on the back of their Spanish Super Cup triumph over Real Madrid and a 2-0 victory over Racing Santander in the Copa del Rey.
Barcelona are top of the standings, four points clear of second-placed Madrid, and will aim to consolidate their position with a victory over Sociedad.
The defending champions have won their last four games on the road, further strengthening their credentials as favourites for this encounter.
Head-to-head
Sociedad have registered 30 wins and 25 draws in the 78 previous league meetings between the two sides at Anoeta.
Team news
The hosts are without Inaki Ruperez and Orri Oskarsson through injury. Duje Caleta-Car, Yangel Herrera and Sergio Gomez have overcome their fitness concerns and participated in Friday’s training.
Barcelona are without Gavi and Andreas Christensen.
Predicted line-ups
Real Sociedad (4-2-3-1): Alex Remiro, Jon Aramburu, Duje Caleta-Car, Jon Martin, Sergio Gomez, Carlos Soler, Benat Turrientes, Takefusa Kubo, Brais Mendez, Goncalo Guedes, Mikel Oyarzabal.
Barcelona (4-2-3-1): Joan Garcia, Alejandro Balde, Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Jules Kounde, Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Raphinha, Fermin Lopez, Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski.
Prediction
We fancy Barcelona to win 4-1.
Stats from whoscored.com & transfermarkt.com.
