By SCM Man at the LA LIGA I Friday, Nov.07, 2025
SPAIN- PLUCKY underdogs Elche ripped up the script last night, holding high-flying Real Sociedad to a gritty 1-1 draw and proving they are no pushovers in La Liga.
The newly-promoted side, affectionately known as the ‘Green-Striped Ones,’ maintained their unbeaten home record thanks to a late, dramatic strike at the Estadio Martinez Valero.
Sociedad, who came into the match off the back of three straight wins across all competitions, thought they had done enough to clinch a vital three points.
They took the lead midway through the second half when star man Mikel Oyarzabal coolly slotted home a penalty.
It looked like business as usual for the Basque giants, who have completely dominated this fixture in recent years, winning their last six encounters. But Elche, who haven’t lost a single game on their own patch this term, had other ideas.
The home crowd roared them on, and the reward came in the 88th minute when a scrappy corner fell to defender David Affengruber, who bundled it home to send the place absolutely wild.
The point is a major psychological boost for Elche and confirms their ninth-place standing in the table is no fluke.
For Real Sociedad boss Sergio Francisco, the away-day jitters continue.
His side remain winless on the road since April, and this dropped two points will feel like a massive blow as they try to climb away from the congested mid-table fight.
MATCH FACTS
Elche Goalscorer: D. Affengruber (88)
Real Sociedad Goalscorer: M. Oyarzabal (65 pen) Venue: Estadio Martínez Valero
