Real Sociedad are desperate for a positive result after they opened their season with a 1-0 loss against Eibar, and followed that up by crashing out of the Europa League on Thursday. Unfortunately, they have to face Real Madrid
Real Sociedad vs. Real Madrid: Time, TV schedule and how to watch online
Real Madrid travel to face as struggling Real Sociedad without Cristiano Ronaldo
Key player: James Rodriguez (Real Madrid)
With Ronaldo out for the match, James Rodriguez will likely get the start in place on the Portuguese winger. The Colombian has looked good so far this season for Madrid as he continues to settle in after his summer transfer. This could be a chance for him to really shine, but the nice thing about playing for Madrid is that he doesn’t have to do everything. Thanks to the multitude of talented players around him, Rodriguez simple needs to play his role and be himself, which could make him even more dangerous.
Key matchup: Toni Kroos vs. La Real's attacking midfield
With Xabi Alonso sold to Bayern Munich, Toni Kroos is the man in the Madrid defensive midfield. He’s certainly a good enough player to handle the job, but after a fairly pedestrian test against Cordoba last week, Real Sociedad should give Kroos a better test. Sergio Canalas will likely be a focus for the German, but if La Real’s attack looks as poor as it did last week against Eibar, Kroos might have an easy day.
Real Sociedad injuries and suspensions
In Doubt: Alfred Finnbogason (shoudler), Ion Ansotegi (Nasal fracture), Jon Gaztanaga (hamstring).
Real Madrid injuries and suspensions
Out: Cristiano Ronaldo (muscle), Jesé (knee)
La Real could welcome back the trio of Alfred Finnbogason, Ion Ansotegi and Jon Gaztanaga this week, all three of whom missed their league opener last week. Real Madrid's only injury issue is a big one as Cristiano Ronaldo will not make the trip to give him time to give his lingering leg injuries to heal.
Match Date/Time: Sunday, 9 p.m. local, 3 p.m. ET
Venue: Anoeta Stadium, San Sebastian, Spain
TV: beIN Sports USA, beIN Sports en Español (U.S.), beIN Sports Canada (Canada), Sky Sports 5/HD (U.K.), Canal+ 1/HD/30 (Spain)
Online: beIN Sports CONNECT (U.S.), Sky Go (U.K.), beIN Sports CONNECT (Canada)
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