Valencia vs. Real Sociedad: La Liga Preview and Prediction

Valencia vs. Real Sociedad - La Liga Preview and Prediction

Valencia will host Real Sociedad at Mestalla on Saturday evening, with Los Che looking to end their five-game losing run and move out of the relegation zone, while Real Sociedad are hoping to strengthen their grip on a top-four spot in La Liga. In this preview, we analyze both teams and offer our prediction and pick for the game.

Valencia

Valencia's season has been disastrous so far, as they have picked up just 20 points from 22 matches, leaving them 19th in the table. The team has not been victorious in the league since November 10, and they are currently on a run of five straight losses, including a 1-0 defeat at Getafe on Monday night. However, Ruben Baraja was appointed head coach on February 14, and Los Che will be hoping for a change in fortunes under his leadership.

Real Sociedad

Real Sociedad have their eyes firmly on a top-four spot this season, currently sitting third in the table. They have the third-best away form in La Liga this season, picking up 25 points from 11 matches. However, the Basque outfit have only won one of their last four in the league, which has allowed Real Madrid to pull clear in second. Real Sociedad will be looking to get back to winning ways against Valencia and maintain their position in the top four.

Betting Trends

According to OddsChecker, Real Sociedad are the favorites to win at 4/6, with Valencia priced at 9/2 to secure a home victory. The draw is priced at 3/1. The over/under is set at 2.5 goals, with the over priced at 5/6 and the under priced at 10/11.

Public Betting Data

As of Thursday, February 23, OddsChecker reports that 47% of the bets are on Real Sociedad to win, with 26% on Valencia to win and 27% on the draw.

Prediction

We expect an entertaining contest at Mestalla, with both teams looking to secure a positive result for different reasons. While Real Sociedad have been in good form away from home, we have a feeling that Valencia could secure a share of the spoils here. Our prediction is a high-scoring 2-2 draw.

Pick: Valencia +1.5 While we predict a draw, we recommend taking Valencia +1.5 (Handicap) for added security. This bet will win if Valencia wins, draws, or loses by one goal.

In conclusion, this La Liga game promises to be an exciting match-up between two teams with different objectives. Valencia will be desperate for points to climb out of the relegation zone, while Real Sociedad will be looking to solidify their position in the top four.