La Liga 2019/20: Real Sociedad vs Atletico Madrid – tactical analysis

Atlético Madrid travelled to the Reale Arena unbeaten in La Liga but put up little fight against Real Sociedad as the hosts ran rampant up against one of the favourites to win the league this season.

Real Madrid loanee Martin Ødegaard broke the deadlock with his effort from inside the box and it was former Arsenal man Nacho Monreal who added a second to put the tie to bed in the second half to seal a 2-0 victory.

This tactical analysis will consider the tactics which decided the battle in La Liga. Both Diego Simone and Imanol Alguacil looked to outsmart each other but it was Alguacil who came out on top, as this analysis will explain, supported by statistics.

Line-ups

Atlético Madrid lined up with a similar set-up to how they have throughout the season, only with Vitolo Machín coming into attack in the major change. Stefan Savić also replaced Mario Hermoso in a straight stop in the backline.

Alguacil was clearly looking for a reaction from his team following a disappointing defeat to Athletic Club. Portu came in for a debut in attack whilst Alexander Isak replaced Willian José. Igor Zubeldía was moved to midfield to replace Asier Illarramendi following his injury, with Monreal coming into the team at left-back for his debut and Aritz Elustondo replacing Zubeldía.