Real Sociedad's path in the 2026-2027 Europa League group stage has been set following Friday's draw. Rino Matarazzo's side, seeded in pot 1 as Copa del Rey champions, will face Juventus, Olympique Lyonnais, and Crystal Palace in a demanding group. The domestic context, however, is challenging: La Real are bottom of La Liga with 0 points from two defeats, having scored just once and conceded five times, leaving them six points behind leaders Barcelona.
Which teams are in Real Sociedad's group?
Real Sociedad must navigate a group of eight teams to try and qualify directly for the round of 16. The most notable opponents are Juventus, Olympique Lyonnais, and current Conference League holders Crystal Palace. The group is completed by Bournemouth, Portuguese second-division side Torreense, Norwegian club Lillestroem, Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise (who played in the Champions League last season), and Czech club Viktoria Plzen. The match schedule runs from September 16 to January 28.
What are the first fixtures?
The initial fixtures are already defined and present major tests. Real Sociedad will travel to face Juventus in Turin and Crystal Palace in London. Conversely, they will host Olympique Lyonnais and Bournemouth at the Reale Arena in San Sebastián. These opening matches will be crucial in the bid to finish among the top eight, who advance directly to the last 16, bypassing a playoff round. The competition final is scheduled for May 26 in Frankfurt.
What does this draw mean for the season?
European participation comes at a delicate time for the team, which needs to correct its course domestically. With only one goal scored and five conceded, the -4 goal difference reflects offensive and defensive struggles. The next match, at home to Espanyol on August 29, is an immediate opportunity to get their first points before focusing on the Europa League. Fans can track the team's progress on our standings page and view the full schedule on our fixtures page.
Is another Spanish team in the group?
Yes, RC Celta de Vigo will also compete in this same Europa League group stage. Both Spanish sides will share several opponents: Juventus, Union Saint-Gilloise, Bournemouth, and Lillestroem. This adds an element of internal rivalry and constant comparison throughout the phase. Real Sociedad, however, carries the status of Copa del Rey champions, a title that earned them qualification and a place in pot 1 for the draw.
The European challenge is monumental and forces the team to rapidly improve its performance. The squad led by Matarazzo must find the consistency it has lacked in these early stages of the season. Focus must now turn to the clash with Espanyol, a necessary step to build confidence before the continental adventure begins next month.
