Budimir delivered the decisive moment in the 49th minute, lifting Osasuna to a hard earned victory against Real Sociedad. The goal came after a precise cross and a well-timed run, sealing a result that looked unlikely as Real pushed to break the deadlock against a stubborn red wall. Earlier in the match, Osasuna had shown flashes of counterpressure that hinted at danger, but the visitors were stubborn and compact in defense, challenging every through ball and second ball with discipline.
Real Sociedad began the game with intent, pressing higher and seeking to pinch the initiative early. The Navarrese side was able to withstand the initial pressure and grew into the match, creating moments that kept the pace lively and tested the hosts. The encounter soon settled into a rhythm where both teams probed, aiming to puncture the opposing rearguard with quick combination play and well-timed runs in behind the defensive lines. The opening period produced chances on both sides, with neither side able to convert before the halftime whistle. The collective effort from Osasuna’s defense limited the most dangerous advances, allowing their goalkeeper to stay largely untroubled as the first half closed with a goalless scoreline.
In the 10th minute, Arsen Zaharyan produced a dangerous moment after a dazzling dribble through Unai García, a run that ended with a shot that narrowly missed the target as it sailed over the crossbar. The visitors then threatened again when André Silva connected with a superb cross from Javi Galán on the left, offering a powerful header that required a sharp save from the host keeper. These early questions tested the resilience of the Roja defense and set the tone for a competitive first half.
As the first half unfolded, Rubén Peña unleashed a fierce shot from just outside the area that required a goalkeeping reaction. Álex Remiro produced a top-tier save, pushing the ball to safety and earning a corner that underlined Osasuna’s growing confidence. The momentum swung a little in favor of the home side when Aimar Oroz looked set to receive a foul-drawn penalty from Benat Turrientes near the edge of the box, but a correct, hawk-eyed offside decision by the official negated the call and the opportunity for a set piece. The whistle to end the half came with no goals but with a sense that the match could tilt at any moment.
Get Kubo was a constant outlet for Real Sociedad, finding space to threaten on the counter. The visitors attempted to capitalise on quick transitions, while Osasuna sought to smother any promising counter and strike with precision. Kubo’s left-footed attempt from a tight angle created a moment of danger that Sergio Herrera saved with a firm palm and little room to spare, keeping the scores level as the teams readied themselves for the second period. Real Sociedad’s approach looked to be building towards a breakthrough, with Kubo delivering dangerous crosses and testing Osasuna’s defensive organization.
As the second half began, Kubo again took charge of a corner, and Martín Zubimendi’s header narrowly missed the target while Real Sociedad pressed to gain momentum. Osasuna appeared to gain the upper hand as the game progressed, maintaining a compact shape that forced Real Sociedad into long-range attempts and blocked routes to goal. The Reds controlled the tempo and used quick transitions to keep the Real defense honest, each moment carrying the weight of an important result in a title race where every point matters.
With the score still balanced, Osasuna pressed forward when possible, while Real Sociedad found it increasingly difficult to pry open the red shield. The visitors created a few half chances; the decisive moments, however, did not fall their way. The match began to tilt as Osasuna grew more confident in their ability to manage the clock and deny space to their opponents. Real Sociedad continued to push for a leveler, but their attempts required more precision than the moment allowed, as Osasuna’s defense held firm and their counterattacks remained dangerous when space opened up.
Deep into the proceedings, the decisive moment arrived. A cross from the right found Budimir in a dangerous area, and his finish beat the keeper to give Osasuna the lead. The home side celebrated a victory that ended a long wait to win at Real Sociedad’s venue and sparked a surge of optimism among the supporters. The result left Real Sociedad frustrated as they looked to rebound, while Osasuna moved up the table and signaled their capacity to win tight games against strong opponents. The final whistle confirmed a hard-earned three points for Osasuna, a testament to their resilience, organizational discipline, and ability to seize rare moments when opportunities appear. This win reinforced the belief in their squad depth and tactical discipline, offering a reminder of the value of patience and execution in the modern game. (Source: Movistar Futbol)
In the aftermath, Real Sociedad remained competitive but could not break through the red line. Their attempts to penetrate Vadillo’s block and quick counter moves were repeatedly repelled as Osasuna maintained compact spacing and disciplined marking. The visitors showed moments of quality, but the required finishing touch eluded them, and Osasuna’s defense earned the deserved victory that elevated them within the league table. The match concluded with Osasuna celebrating a result that reflected the quality and determination of a team focused on consistent performances and a steady climb through the standings.