Barcelona Dealt Huge Blow After Shock Defeat to Real Sociedad

By Francis Onyach - Reporter

Kenya, January 19 2026 - In a surprising turn of events in La Liga, FC Barcelona suffered a 2–1 loss to Real Sociedad at the Anoeta Stadium, ending their recent strong run and handing a major boost to the Spanish title race. The defeat represents a significant setback for Barcelona as they looked to extend their lead at the top of the league.

The hosts opened the scoring in the 31st minute when Mikel Oyarzabal finished a well-placed cross into the bottom corner, giving Real Sociedad an early lead and setting the tone for a tight encounter. Barca tried pushing for an equalizer but Real Sociedad remained disciplined.

Barcelona responded in the second half and equalized through Marcus Rashford in the 69th minute. Rashford capitalised on a chance in the box heading past the helpless goalkeeper to bring the visitors back on level terms, igniting hopes of a comeback from the Catalan giants.

However, Sociedad responded swiftly, regaining the lead just a minute later when Gonçalo Guedes struck in the 70th minute, sending a superb shot past Garcia after a quick build-up that caught Barcelona’s defence off guard. Guedes’ decisive finish proved to be the winner in a thrilling turning point for the home side.

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Despite Barcelona dominating possession and creating several opportunities throughout the game, they were unable to find a second equaliser. Real Sociedad saw one of their players sent off in the 88th minute, reducing them to 10 men.The defeat halts Barcelona’s impressive run and raises questions about their defensive solidity in key moments.

The loss also tightens the title race, with Barcelona’s lead at the summit reduced and rivals such as Real Madrid now within one point off the top. For Real Sociedad, the victory is a major morale boost and pushes them up the La Liga table with renewed confidence.