Real Valladolid’s Canadian striker shines in a winter move and seals a 1-0 victory against Real Sociedad
Real Valladolid featured a Canadian forward who arrived on loan in the winter window and quickly became a decisive factor for the Castile and Leon club. Cyle Larin delivered the crucial goal that earned his team three points in San Sebastián, marking his second consecutive match with a game-winning contribution.
The loan signing from Bruges proved to be an immense asset in the second half, providing the breakthrough that kept Valladolid in the hunt for a higher league position. Larin’s goal sealed the result on a night when the hosts tested their visitors with pressure on the right flank, trying to open gaps through the wings and create meaningful chances against a defense aware of the danger.
The match saw significant challenges on the home side’s right side, prompting coach Imanol Alguacil to reshape the lineup and assign Martin Zubimendi to close that channel. Valladolid attempted to exploit the spaces by directing balls toward Machís and Monchu, hoping to unlock a stubborn backline and exploit any lapse in concentration from the Real Sociedad defense.
Although Valladolid did not present a constant threat, their style suggested that any defensive lapse from San Sebastián could be costly. The game, framed as a tactical duel, leaned toward a cautious second half as the league standings remained tightly contested and both teams eyed a decisive moment rather than a sweeping attacking display.
Final score: Real Sociedad 0, Real Valladolid 1. Larin’s winner energized Valladolid and sparked celebrations at the Royal Arena as the team claimed all three points in a high-stakes clash.
There were moments of equal tension for both sides, with neither side claiming a clear advantage in the opening exchanges. A couple of headers from Illarramendi and a well-placed but deflected effort from Sergio León kept the situation tense, while a decisive opportunity appeared for the Basque club to take the lead as the clock ticked toward halftime.
Midway through the first half, Marín connected with Sorloth, and the Norwegian blasted a powerful shot that struck Masip’s post, keeping the scoreline level and the arena buzzing with near-misses and loud support from the home crowd.
The draw felt like a shared reward for both teams, yet the second period promised more action as Real Sociedad pushed to reclaim parity and Valladolid looked for a counterattack to tip the balance. Several players were unavailable due to injuries or tactical decisions, and the visitors exploited gaps as the game opened up a touch in the latter stages.
Late in the second half, Vancouver-born forward Cyle Larin reappeared for Valladolid, delivering his impact at a critical moment. His perseverance culminated in a second goal for the visitors, a header finished with composure as Remiro failed to seal the save, securing an important win for his team in a match that mattered for both sides’ campaigns.
The tactical battle intensified as the match wore on, with both teams exchanging pressure and brief spells of dominance. Valladolid’s approach centered on compact defense and sudden transitions, while Real Sociedad sought to magnify attacking intent through set-pieces and quick combinations. The late goal crowned a disciplined performance by Valladolid, who managed the game’s tempo to protect their advantage and claim victory on hostile turf.
Data sheet: Real Sociedad featured Zubeldia, Zubimendi, Le Normand, Rico from the start, with Marín, Illarramendi, Robert Navarro, Kubo, Barrenetxea and Sorloth among the key contributors. Real Valladolid lined up with Masip, Perez, Sanchez, Hongla, Olaza, Perez, Monchu, Plano, Silver, Machís and Larin, who entered in the second half to spearhead the decisive moment.
Referee: Gonzalez Fuertes. The official cautioned several players for minor infringements during the contest.
Aim: 0-1, minute 72 with Larin finding the net. Attendance: 32,214 at the Reale Arena, with a special delegation from Serrada invited for the Harvest Fair celebrations in Valladolid.