Real Sociedad manager says fatigue and defensive lapses proved costly against Real Madrid: ‘They were clinical’

Real Sociedad manager Pellegrino Matarazzo acknowledged his team suffered due to Real Madrid’s superior quality and some key errors, which cost them the 4-1 victory. Sociedad put up a good fight in the first half, but their defense weakened as Real Madrid’s attacking prowess shone through. Matarazzo admitted his side had collectively defended, though hiccups in decision-making and energy dipped allowed the hosts to capitalize on their superiority.

The coach pinpointed crucial mistakes, especially in the second and third goals conceded, where Real Madrid exploited Sociedad’s weaknesses through clinical finishing and moments of misplaced marking. Furthermore, Matarazzo suggested fatigue also played a part, as Sociedad grew weaker after losing possession and failed to regain their earlier defensive intensity.

The result showcased a Jose Mourinho-led Real Madrid, a team that dazzled the Santiago Bernabeu with the attacking combination of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr., and Jude Bellingham, turning their dominance into goals.