Real Sociedad B played their first preseason friendly against Pau FC from Ligue 2 at Zubieta. The closed-door match allowed Pellegrino Matarazzo's side to test their form after six days of intense training. The club, currently 17th in La Liga with 0 points (0 goals scored, 0 conceded), did not release official details, though Pau FC initially labeled it a match and posted their starting lineup before removing it, likely at Real Sociedad's request.

What happened in the friendly?

The game, officiated by a referee and linesmen, saw Real Sociedad B field a starting XI of Remiro, Rupérez, Zubeldia, Beitia, Sergio Gómez, Ibai Aguirre, Soler, Mikel Rodríguez, Ochieng, Barrenetxea, and Carrera, with Igor Zubeldia as captain. The team was without injured players like Odriozola, Balda, Jon Pacheco, Gorrotxategi, and Carlos Fernández, as well as World Cup participants Sucic, Guedes, Kubo, and Oyarzabal, the latter still competing. Additionally, Aramburu, Yangel, Óskarsson, and Kita, who joined preseason last Thursday, did not play.

How intense was the match?

Based on released footage, the game was high-intensity, with several physical challenges. The French side, typically further along in preparation, tested Real Sociedad's players, who mixed starters with a dozen youth squad members. The intensity was particularly high early on, revealing some players' lack of competitive rhythm.

What's next for Real Sociedad B?

After resting on Sunday, the squad will resume training on Monday to prepare for their next friendly, scheduled for Saturday, July 18, at 6:00 PM at Zubieta against Racing de Santander. Unlike the Pau FC match, this game will be open to fans, giving them their first look at the team in action. Real Sociedad B, aiming to climb in La Liga, will use these matches to refine their play and test new tactics ahead of the new season.