Real Sociedad took a step closer to qualification by winning away against Midtjylland (2-1) in the Europa League Round of 16. The Basque club quickly took the lead thanks to Brais Méndez (11′, from the penalty spot), before Takefusa Kubo doubled the advantage in the 31st minute.
The Danes responded before halftime with a goal from Buksa (38′), but it was not enough to turn the game around against a well-organized Real Sociedad team.
Moroccan international Nayef Aguerd, initially on the bench, came on at the start of the second half (46′), replacing Pacheco. A like-for-like change made by Imanol Alguacil, aiming to provide more defensive stability with the experience of the Moroccan. This decision paid off, as Aguerd delivered a solid performance to secure the Basque defense until the final whistle.
With this victory, Real Sociedad heads into the return leg in a favorable position.
