Real Sociedad 0-1 Barcelona: Aubameyang strike earns narrow win

Barcelona came to San Sebastian knowing they were in for a tough night, and they got it, but they managed to leave with three points in the bag too.

Points that effectively knock the Basque side out of contention for a top four spot and greatly bolster the Catalan side’s dream of Champions League qualification for next season.

It was a good way to bounce back from Monday’s Cadiz defeat, albeit far from a sparkling display. In fact, Real Sociedad had more possession, 56 per cent to Barcelona’s 44.

The hosts were largely on top, although Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s 11th minute goal was a good one with various Barcelona players impressing to help construct it.

Jordi Alba’s dangerous cross ended up being turned against the post by Ousmane Dembele, and Gavi did brilliantly to win the ball back as Real Sociedad tried to bring it away, setting up Ferran Torres who looped a cross to the back post, where Aubameyang was on hand to nod home from close range.

After that it was more or less La Real, with Alexander Isak firing wide and Sorloth following suit, as the strikers continued their inconsistent seasons.

The resurgent Marc-Andre ter Stegen did well to deny Sorloth and tip away a dangerous Januzaj cross.

Gavi might have doubled Barcelona’s lead but fired wide, and they ended up having to hold on with all four of the defenders picking up knocks or injuries.

Pique, jeered by home fans after the audio leaks this week, put in a huge performance in particular. And Barcelona stay second.