Real Madrid Move Top Of La Liga After 4-1 Win Over Real Sociedad

Real Madrid made a major statement in the 2025/26 La Liga season with a dominating 4-1 win over Real Sociedad at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium on Matchday 24. This important win sent Real Madrid to the top of the La Liga table. Moreover, this match showcased their strong form and depth despite their key player being missing from the team. 

Early Drama: Madrid Strikes First, Sociedad Responds

Real Madrid started the game with attacking intent and aggressive play. In the 5th minute, Bernabéu was agitated when Gonzalo Garcia scored a one-touch goal, crossed by Trent Alexander-Arnold. Real Sociedad, however, did not pressure themselves, and they quickly grew into the game. 

In the 21st minute, Mikel Oyarzabal, one of the most experienced players of Sociedad, won a penalty after a serious challenge inside the box by Dean Huijsen. Oyarzabal converted the penalty into a goal, which tied the score at 1-1. 

Madrid Regain Control: Valverde and Vinicius Turned the Game

Just four minutes after Sociedad’s equalizer, Real Madrid was awarded a penalty of their own. Vinicius Junior stepped up and placed his spot kick low past the keeper. The crowd at Bernabéu roared again. 

In the 31st minute of the game, Madrid took full control of the game as Federico Valverde scored a beautiful goal into the top corner. The goal sealed the game instantly, and it was a goal that was composed, perfectly placed, and full of huge confidence. With the lead restored, Madrid headed into the break with confidence.

The second half begins with Madrid on the front foot. Just a few minutes after the halftime, Madrid won another penalty again involving Vinicius Junior. Vinicius again converted the penalty into a goal in the 48th minute of the game. When the referee blew the whistle, the scoreboard was 4-1, and Real Madrid celebrated their 3 points and moved to the top of the La Liga table.

SUGGESTED READ: Real Sociedad End Barcelona’s Winning Streak in La Liga

Team Lineups and Starting Eleven

Real Madrid: 

Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois

Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Antonio Rudiger, Dean Huijsen, Alvaro Carreras

Midfielders: Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, Arda Güler, Aurelien Tchouameni

Forwards:  Gonzalo Garcia, Vinicius Junior

Real Sociedad:

Goalkeeper: Alex Remiro

Defenders: Aihen Munoz, Igor Zubeldia, Jon Martin, Jon Aramburu

Midfielders: Carlos Soler, Wesley, Yangel Herrera, Jon Gorrotxategi, Pablo Martin

Forward: Mikel Oyarzabal

Full Match Statistics

How This Win Impacts the Title Race

With this win, Real Madrid surpassed their rivals, Barcelona, moving to 60 points in 24 games. The title race is interesting and tightening. Although a single match cannot decide the season with 14 matches remaining. However, this win gives Real Madrid a boost in confidence and hope for the title.

A +3 goal margin strengthens Madrid’s goal difference, which can be important in a tie-breaker in the tight La Liga standings. Even without players like Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, Rodrigo Goes, and others, Madrid showed up, where young players like Arda Güler and Gonzalo Garcia delivered a proper game while experienced players delivered under pressure. This game boosted their confidence and quality of the game that should be played in European competitions.

ALSO READ: Real Madrid Start La Liga With 1-0 Win Over Osasuna as Mbappé Scores Penalty

Take a Look at La Liga Standings (2025/26 Season) (Top 5)

Real Madrid’s Upcoming La Liga and European Journey

Following their dominant 4-1 win against Real Sociedad, Real Madrid now shift their attention to an important La Liga match against Osasuna on February 21, 2026. With confidence and squad strength, Madrid enters this match aiming to maintain pressure at the top of the table.

Here are the upcoming match fixtures of Real Madrid:

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