Valencia displayed a well-structured and disciplined defensive performance against Real Sociedad, frustrating their opponents with a compact shape and effective organization. Their ability to maintain defensive solidity, limit space in central areas, and counter swiftly was key to securing a positive result.

1. Compact Defensive Shape

Valencia set up in a deep 4-4-2 or 5-3-2 formation, ensuring that Sociedad had little room to operate between the lines. The defensive unit remained compact, closing down passing lanes and forcing Sociedad to play out wide rather than through the middle.

2. Aggressive Midfield Pressing

The midfield duo worked tirelessly to break up Sociedad’s build-up play. Hugo Guillamón and André Almeida pressed Sociedad’s midfielders aggressively, preventing them from dictating the tempo and forcing misplaced passes. This disrupted Sociedad’s usual attacking rhythm.

3. Limiting Space for Key Playmakers

Sociedad’s creative players, including Takefusa Kubo and Mikel Merino, struggled to find time and space in Valencia’s defensive setup. Valencia’s defenders remained tight on their markers, cutting off passing options and preventing Sociedad from generating clear-cut chances.

4. Defensive Transitions and Quick Recoveries

Whenever Sociedad attempted to switch play or break through the lines, Valencia’s defensive transitions were swift. Their backline recovered quickly, ensuring numerical superiority in dangerous areas and forcing Sociedad into low-percentage shots from distance.

5. Counter-Attacking Threat

Despite prioritizing defense, Valencia remained dangerous on the counter. Samuel Lino and Diego López exploited Sociedad’s high defensive line, using pace to transition from defense to attack quickly. This forced Sociedad to remain cautious, preventing them from committing too many players forward.