David Moyes’ side received more agony in their disappointing opening to the new season in a fiery contest against Atlético Madrid, ending in a 2-0 defeat.
Nine-man Real Sociedad looked to kick-start their season after winning only once in the opening seven fixtures and, more importantly, distance themselves from the relegation zone.
Diego Simeone’s side would not have to wait long for an opening goal. Former Real Sociedad star Antoine Griezmann continued his fine goalscoring form with a brilliant run through both Asier Illarramendi and Diego Reyes before brilliantly chipping Gerónimo Rulli for his fourth league goal of the season.
The home side sought an immediate reply through David Zurutuza’s volleyed effort but could not threaten Jan Oblak. Sergio Canales would go much closer minutes later with a free kick that only narrowly missed the right post.
Sociedad would continue to look for an equaliser after some terrible defending by Felipe Luís almost gifted the home side a goal to dramatically level things late on, only for Oblak to step in.
Reyes became the first to be sent off after receiving his second bookable offence for arguing with the referee over Atléti’s time-wasting tactics, with Jonathas sent off soon after in a similar manner.
Sociedad continued to push for a late leveler and saw a penalty claim waved away. That led to substitute Fernando Torres breaking away, feeding fellow substitute Yannick Ferreira-Carrasco who rounded Rulli to seal the three points for the away side.
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