Analysis The numbers behind the result
Real Sociedad's dominance justified by superior xG and shot volume
Real Sociedad's 2-1 victory over Levante was a fair reflection of their superiority in chance creation, with their 2.54 xG dwarfing Levante's 0.7. Despite Levante's early equaliser through Nacho Pérez (22'), Sociedad's relentless pressure (17 shots to 6) and clinical edge in the final third – particularly via Benat Turrientes' winner (27') – ensured they capitalised on their territorial dominance (62% possession).
The hosts' attacking intent was clear: 14 shots inside the box (versus Levante's 4) and 11 shots off target highlighted their proactive approach, even if only 3 efforts found the target. Levante, despite being outshot, were marginally more efficient in shot conversion (2 on target from 6 attempts), but their lack of high-quality chances (just 0.7 xG) exposed their reliance on isolated counterattacks and set-pieces (3 corners).
The decisive stat was Real Sociedad's shot volume – their 17 attempts to Levante's 6 underscored their control, with Turrientes' strike proving the difference in a game where Levante's defence was consistently overworked.