Real Sociedad missed the chance to record successive La Liga wins for the first time since January after being held to a goalless draw by Celta Vigo at Reale Arena on Thursday.
The hosts had entered the match with a strong home record, losing only twice in their previous 14 league games on their own ground, while Celta had won just one of their last six competitive away matches. That contrast was reflected in the opening stages, as Real Sociedad controlled possession and played with greater attacking confidence.
They almost took the lead after 15 minutes when Jon Martin met a cross with a powerful downward header. Celta goalkeeper Radu reacted quickly to keep the effort out.
Real Sociedad continued to create opportunities. Mikel Oyarzabal, a winner of both the World Cup and European Championship with Spain, saw a fierce left-footed shot instinctively blocked by Radu. The ball dropped invitingly to Takefusa Kubo, but the Japan international sent a close-range volley over the bar despite appearing to have the goal at his mercy.
Radu was again called upon when Yangel Herrera drove a low effort towards the bottom corner, turning the ball around the post. The goalkeeper then dealt with another dangerous attempt shortly before the interval, holding Benat Turrientes’ powerful left-footed strike from 25 yards.
Real Sociedad were unable to maintain the same level of pressure after half-time. The best chance before the hour mark went to Celta, when Andres Antanon found space on a promising counter-attack but fired well wide of Alex Remiro’s goal.
The match then became increasingly scrappy, with several robust challenges disrupting the flow. Celta defenders Yoel Lago and former Chelsea player Marcos Alonso were both shown yellow cards.
Real Sociedad thought they had a strong case for a penalty with fewer than 15 minutes remaining. Goncalo Guedes appeared to be pulled down inside the box after winning possession from Alvaro Nunez, but referee Victor Garcia Verdura rejected the appeals.
Celta nearly snatched victory with 10 minutes left when veteran forward Iago Aspas found an opening. However, the experienced striker could not find a way past Remiro, who made a comfortable save to preserve the scoreline.
The result was the first goalless draw between the two sides since November 2008. It also extended Real Sociedad’s wait for back-to-back La Liga victories, while Celta earned a point from a match in which they had spent much of the opening half under pressure.
Real Sociedad’s next fixture is an away game at Elche on Monday evening. Celta Vigo will also be on the road that night, travelling to face Getafe.
Flashscore’s Man of the Match was Marcos Alonso of Celta Vigo.