Real Sociedad missed the chance to record consecutive LaLiga victories for the first time since January after being held to a 0-0 draw by Celta Vigo at Reale Arena on Thursday.
Imanol Alguacil’s side had lost only two of their previous 14 home matches, winning eight and drawing four, while Celta had managed just one victory in their last six competitive away games. That contrasting form was reflected in the opening stages, as Sociedad took control of possession and pushed the visitors back.
Their first clear opportunity arrived shortly before the 15-minute mark. Jon Martin rose to meet a cross with a powerful downward header, but Celta goalkeeper Radu reacted well to keep the effort out.
Sociedad continued to create openings. Mikel Oyarzabal, a winner of both the World Cup and European Championship with Spain, saw a fierce left-foot shot saved instinctively by Radu. The rebound fell invitingly to Takefusa Kubo, but the Japan international lifted his volley over the crossbar from close range when it appeared easier to score.
Radu was called into action again soon afterwards, turning Yangel Herrera’s low drive around the post as the hosts maintained the pressure.
The Romanian goalkeeper’s busiest period of the first half ended with another testing effort from Benat Turrientes, whose powerful left-footed shot from about 25 yards was struck directly at him.
However, Sociedad were unable to reproduce that level of dominance after half-time. The best opportunity before the hour mark fell to Celta during a promising counter-attack, but Andres Antanon fired well wide of the target.
The match then became increasingly scrappy, with Celta defenders Yoel Lago and former Chelsea player Marcos Alonso both shown yellow cards for rash challenges.
Sociedad believed they had a strong claim for a penalty with fewer than 15 minutes remaining. Goncalo Guedes appeared to be pulled down inside the area after winning possession from Alvaro Nunez, but referee Victor Garcia Verdura rejected the appeals.
Celta almost snatched all three points shortly afterwards when veteran forward Iago Aspas found space with 10 minutes left. His attempt looked capable of producing a decisive late moment, but Alex Remiro made a comfortable save to deny him.
The stalemate was the first goalless draw between the clubs since November 2008 and ensured neither side found the breakthrough in a match dominated by Sociedad’s early pressure but lacking a finishing touch.
Real Sociedad travel to Elche on Monday evening, while Celta Vigo are also away from home that night when they visit Getafe.
Marcos Alonso was named Flashscore’s Man of the Match.
