Real Madrid vs Real Sociedad: Prediction, Team News and Expected Lineups

Real Madrid will host Real Sociedad at the Santiago Bernabéu on August 26, 2026, looking to make it two wins from two at the start of the new La Liga season.

The match will also mark José Mourinho’s return to the Santiago Bernabéu as Real Madrid manager, with Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr expected to lead the home side.

Real Madrid Looking for Second Straight Win

Real Madrid opened their La Liga campaign with a 2-1 victory away to Espanyol. Mbappé and Bellingham are expected to remain central to Mourinho’s plans as Madrid look to build early momentum.

Real Madrid are strong favorites going into the match, with their recent record against Real Sociedad also giving the home side confidence.

Real Sociedad Face Major Challenge

Real Sociedad arrive in Madrid looking to recover from their opening defeat to Real Betis. The visitors are expected to rely heavily on captain Mikel Oyarzabal, while coach Pellegrino Matarazzo has fitness concerns over several players.

Confirmed absences reported ahead of the match include Marín, Álvaro Odriozola, Gorrotxategi and Gonçalo Guedes, although Ander Barrenetxea is available.

Expected Real Madrid Lineup

Courtois; Dumfries, Konaté, Huijsen, Cucurella; Valverde, Bernardo Silva; Arda Güler or Diomande, Bellingham, Vinicius Jr; Mbappé.

Match Prediction

Real Madrid have significantly more firepower and home advantage, while Real Sociedad enter the match with several injury concerns.

Prediction: Real Madrid 3-1 Real Sociedad