Real Sociedad tackle Manchester United in the first leg of their Europa League round-of-32 matchup. Predictions and odds for this Real Sociedad versus Manchester United match to be played at Allianz Stadium in Turin, Italy, are available.
Sociedad advanced after placing second in Group F, whilst United dropped to this tournament after exiting from the Champions League.
Real Sociedad and Manchester United have only faced each other twice previously -- in the 2013-14 CL group stage – with United winning 1-0 at Old Trafford, while it was a goalless stalemate in Spain.
Before taking on United, Sociedad won 1-0 at Getafe to climb to fifth place in the La Liga and are seven points off fourth placers Sevilla.
OYARZABAL OUT?
Striker Mikel Oyarzabal will be in doubtful status for Sociedad after their leading scorer suffered a hamstring problem.
The Spanish side have lost four of their last five knockout matches in major UEFA European competition since winning 2-1 against Atletico Madrid in the first leg of the last-16 in the UEFA Cup in 1998-99.
United, the 2017 Europa League winners, were beaten 2-1 on aggregate by Sevilla in the semifinals last year. Sevilla eventually won the trophy.
The Red Devils are winless in their last nine European matches against Spanish opponents (3 draws, 6 losses) since a 1-0 win over Celta de Vigo in the 2016-17 semi-final.
United have lost one of their last 16 Europa League knockout matches, getting defeated in their most recent game against Sevilla in the semi-final last season.
Prior to facing Sociedad, United were held to a 1-1 draw at West Bromwich Albion to suffer a blow in their fight for the title race this season. United climbed above Leicester in second place, but are now seven points behind leaders Manchester City, who also have a game in hand.
We also have
free football tips on the other featured matches this week. Check them out now.