The football world turns its gaze to the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys in Barcelona this Sunday, September 28, 2025, as FC Barcelona prepares to host Real Sociedad. Kick-off is set for 16:30 local time. This fixture carries significant weight, not just for the points at stake in La Liga, but also for the contrasting narratives surrounding both clubs as they navigate the early stages of the season.
Barcelona finds itself in a period of transition, temporarily calling the historic Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys home while the iconic Spotify Camp Nou undergoes extensive renovations. This temporary relocation has seen the club adapt to a new atmosphere on Montjuïc, a hill overlooking the city. Meanwhile, Real Sociedad, under new management, seeks to overcome a challenging start to their campaign. Can the Blaugrana capitalize on their impressive recent scoring form and Real Madrid’s stumble? Or will Real Sociedad, buoyed by a recent win, find the resilience to pull off an upset on hostile, albeit temporary, ground?
Head-to-Head
Historically, matches between FC Barcelona and Real Sociedad have often favored the Catalan giants. Since 2003, these two sides have clashed 44 times across all competitions. Barcelona boasts a significant advantage, securing 30 victories, while Real Sociedad has managed 7 wins, with the remaining 7 encounters ending in a draw.
Recent Results (Last 5 Meetings):
- March 2, 2025: FC Barcelona 4–0 Real Sociedad
- November 10, 2024: Real Sociedad 1–0 FC Barcelona
- May 13, 2024: FC Barcelona 2–0 Real Sociedad
- November 4, 2023: Real Sociedad 0–1 FC Barcelona
- May 20, 2023: FC Barcelona 1–2 Real Sociedad
Notable outcomes in recent memory include Barcelona’s dominant 4-0 home victory in March 2025, showcasing their attacking prowess. However, Real Sociedad proved they can trouble Barcelona, as evidenced by their 1-0 win at home in November 2024. These results underscore the unpredictable nature of this rivalry, despite Barcelona’s overall statistical superiority.
Current Form & Team News
FC Barcelona
Under manager Hansi Flick, Barcelona appears to be hitting their stride after a strong run of results. Their last five competitive matches across all competitions show a formidable record of four wins and one draw (W-W-W-W-D).
- September 25, 2025: Real Oviedo 1–3 Barcelona
- September 21, 2025: Barcelona 3–0 Getafe
- September 14, 2025: Newcastle United 1–2 Barcelona
- September 14, 2025: Barcelona 6–0 Valencia
- August 31, 2025: Rayo Vallecano 1–1 Barcelona
Barcelona’s attack has been particularly potent, with goals from key players like Robert Lewandowski and Ronald Araújo in their recent victory against Real Oviedo. The squad also boasts talents such as Eric García, Frenkie de Jong, Dani Olmo, and Marcus Rashford, all of whom are expected to feature prominently. The team will be looking to capitalize on the momentum gained, especially following a favorable result for them in another key league fixture.
Real Sociedad
Real Sociedad, now managed by Sergio Francisco, who succeeded Imanol Alguacil, has endured a challenging start to the 2025-26 season. Their recent form reflects this struggle, with one win, one draw, and three losses in their last five outings (W-D-L-L-L).
- September 24, 2025: Real Sociedad 1–0 Mallorca
- September 19, 2025: Real Betis 3–1 Real Sociedad
- September 13, 2025: Real Sociedad 1–2 Real Madrid
- August 30, 2025: Real Oviedo 1–0 Real Sociedad
- August 24, 2025: Real Sociedad 2–2 Espanyol
Despite a “nightmare start,” Real Sociedad managed to secure their first win of the season against Mallorca, which could provide a much-needed confidence boost as they face Barcelona. There are no major injury concerns widely reported, but their defensive vulnerabilities, highlighted by recent scorelines, will be a key area of focus for Francisco.
Tactical Preview
Barcelona is expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, a system that allows them to maintain midfield control while unleashing a potent attacking quartet. With players like Frenkie de Jong dictating play from deep and the likes of Dani Olmo and Marcus Rashford providing width and creativity behind a central striker like Robert Lewandowski, Barcelona’s offensive threat is multifaceted. Their style emphasizes possession, intricate passing, and high pressing to regain the ball quickly.
For Real Sociedad, a more pragmatic approach is anticipated. Given their recent struggles, manager Sergio Francisco will likely prioritize defensive solidity and look to exploit any counter-attacking opportunities. The midfield battle will be crucial, as Real Sociedad will need to disrupt Barcelona’s rhythm and prevent their creative players from finding space. Their ability to contain Barcelona’s wide attackers and protect their central defenders will be key to avoiding a high-scoring defeat.
The match will be played at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, a venue that has been fully prepared to host Barcelona’s home fixtures, including the installation of a new pitch. While not the traditional Camp Nou, Barcelona has adapted to this temporary home. The weather in Barcelona in late September is typically pleasant, which should not be a significant factor. Barcelona also benefits from no travel fatigue, playing on their home turf.
