Real Sociedad impressive for Europa League victory over Ajax

Unbeaten in 16 matches across all competitions prior to this clash, Ajax started on a positive note, with Chuba Akpom firing wide after a promising early breakaway. Eleven minutes into the game, Brian Brobbey had a golden opportunity, but his effort struck the post despite heavy pressure.

This proved to be Ajax's best chance in the first half, as both sides struggled to create clear opportunities. Real Sociedad controlled more of the ball but failed to make a significant impact until the closing moments of the half when Sheraldo Becker found Mikel Oyarzabal, who narrowly missed the target after a clever turn with his back to goal.

The first half ended on a somber note for Sociedad, with Aritz Elustondo being stretchered off. However, the game picked up after the break, with chances for both teams. Takefusa Kubo had a low shot saved, while Kian Fitz-Jim hit the post for Ajax at the other end.

Sociedad thought they had broken the deadlock when Jon Aramburu turned in a set-piece delivery, only to be ruled offside. They didn't have to wait long for a legitimate goal, as Ander Barrenetxea converted Kubo's cross in the 67th minute.

Sociedad's much-improved second-half performance was capped off in the final minutes when Kubo scored a brilliant goal, darting towards the goal and burying his shot into the corner. This result secured just their third win in 10 home games and kept their undefeated record against Dutch teams intact. They are now within three points of the top eight after a difficult start to their European campaign.

For Ajax, this defeat marks their ninth loss in the last 13 away matches against Spanish teams. Despite slipping in the standings, they remain in the automatic qualification spots.