Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Europa League match.
Ajax's excellent start in the Europa League group stage signals that the Amsterdam side are back on track and ready to contend for the title. Against Real Sociedad, they will exploit the weaknesses of the Basque team—something even less illustrious opponents have managed to do.
Real Sociedad
As we reach the midway point of the Europa League group stage, Real Sociedad find themselves outside the top 24 in the standings, which would grant a playoff spot. Early in November, they had a disappointing trip to Viktoria Plzeň, conceding a decisive goal in the dying moments for a 1:2 loss. A major issue for the Basques has been their poor finishing: against the Czechs, they generated 2.02 xG compared to their opponent's 0.52 xG, but their shots were too simplistic. It’s noteworthy that the team will be missing Arsen Zakharyan, Álvaro Odriozola, Adama Traoré, and Orri Óskarsson, with absences affecting every line.
Ajax
Ajax will also be without the injured Mika Godts and Kenneth Taylor, but they have competent, more experienced replacements. The Amsterdam team last tasted defeat in mid-August, having gone 16 matches unbeaten with wins over Beşiktaş (4:0), Feyenoord (2:0), and PSV Eindhoven (3:2). In their last Europa League outing, they dismantled Maccabi Haifa (5:0), with Brian Brobbey contributing 1+2 in just 61 minutes.
Real Sociedad vs Ajax Prediction
In San Sebastián, Real Sociedad will look to take the initiative, but Ajax have the confidence and quality to head home with points. We believe the visitors will not lose.
