Real Madrid Cruise to 4-1 Victory Over Real Sociedad, Climb to Top of La Liga

 Real Madrid delivered a commanding performance at the Santiago Bernabéu on Saturday, February 14, 2026, defeating Real Sociedad 4-1 in a La Liga encounter that saw them provisionally leapfrog Barcelona to the summit of the table. With key players sidelined, the hosts showcased depth and resilience, extending their unbeaten run in the league to eight consecutive wins.

The match kicked off with Real Madrid asserting early dominance. Young forward Gonzalo García opened the scoring in the 5th minute, capitalizing on a well-worked move to slot home and give his side the lead. Real Sociedad responded quickly, however, as Mikel Oyarzabal leveled the scores from the penalty spot around the 20th minute after a foul in the box.

The equalizer did little to disrupt Madrid's rhythm. Vinícius Júnior restored the advantage shortly after, converting a penalty in the 25th minute following a foul on him inside the area. The Brazilian forward was a constant threat, drawing defenders and creating chaos with his pace and dribbling.

Federico Valverde then added a moment of brilliance just before halftime. In the 31st minute, the Uruguayan midfielder unleashed a curling strike from the edge of the box that sailed into the top corner, assisted by Álvaro Carreras. It was Valverde's first league goal of the season and a strike that effectively put the game beyond doubt.

The second half saw Vinícius Júnior seal the rout. Three minutes after the restart, he won and converted another penalty—his second of the night—after being clipped by Jon Aramburu. The spot-kick made it 4-1, and despite Sociedad's efforts to claw back, Madrid's defense held firm to secure a comfortable win.

Notably absent from the lineup were superstars Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham, with the latter out due to a hamstring injury. Yet the team showed no lack of quality, with contributions spread across the pitch. Trent Alexander-Arnold, making his first start in over two months following injury, provided an assist and added defensive stability on his return.

Vinícius Júnior was the standout performer, notching a brace from the spot and constantly troubling the visitors' backline. His clinical finishing and ability to win penalties proved decisive in a match where Madrid controlled possession and created numerous chances.

The result moves Real Madrid to 60 points from their 24 league games, placing them two points clear of defending champions Barcelona, who have a game in hand and face Girona on Monday. This victory halts Real Sociedad's impressive 10-game unbeaten streak across all competitions and reinforces Madrid's momentum heading into a crucial midweek Champions League clash against Benfica.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti's side has now won their last eight La Liga matches, a run that has seen them overcome injuries and maintain their title challenge. Fans at the Bernabéu celebrated what was a polished team display, with the goals coming from a mix of youth, experience, and individual flair.

Real Sociedad, sitting in the upper half of the table, struggled to match Madrid's intensity after the early stages. While Oyarzabal's penalty gave them hope, they found it difficult to break down a solid Madrid rearguard.

As the season progresses, this win serves as a strong statement from Real Madrid. With depth in attack and midfield creativity on show, they look well-positioned to keep the pressure on their rivals. The focus now shifts to Europe, but for one night, La Liga supremacy was the priority—and they delivered in style.