• LaLiga

San Sebastian, Apr 26 (EFE).-

Arda Guler scored to lead Real Madrid to a narrow 1-0 win over Real Sociedad at the Reale Arena on Friday and help extend their lead at the top of La Liga.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti opted for multiple rotations in his lineup with Tuesday’s Champions League duel in Munich in mind and the substitutes delivered, pulling off another win.

The home team showed more momentum in the first minutes that resulted in their first opportunity to score after the 15th minute, when Ander Barrenetxea, worked the ball to Takefusa Kubo, whose shot was pushed away by Kepa Arrizabalaga.

The home side continued on the offensive, playing with an ease they had failed to display in recent games and came very close to Real Madrid’s area.

Beñat Turrientes also came close to opening the score for his side but his effort flew over the bar.

Real Madrid finally struck in the 29th minute.

Dani Carvajal came down the right flank and sent a low pass across the area to Arda Guler, who made no mistake in slotting it home to make it 1-0.

Kubo then made it 1-1 but the goal was disallowed for a foul by Ander Barrenetxea on Aurelien Tchouameni.

The match resumed after the break with La Real still in the hunt for a goal but 30 seconds into the second half, Kepa palmed away another attempt by Turrientes.

Real Sociedad came close to equalizing when Oyarzabal saw an effort deflected wide before Sheraldo Becker fired just over the crossbar.

Real Madrid are 14 points ahead of Barcelona, who still have to play their matchday 33 fixture, while Real Sociedad remain in sixth place, with Betis and Valencia close behind. EFE

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