Real Sociedad vs Celta Vigo preview - Prieto wary of Celta threat

Posted Saturday, November 23, 2013 by PA

Real Sociedad midfielder Xabi Prieto has warned his side to not be fooled by Celta Vigo's low position in the Primera Division, highlighting Luis Garcia's side's strong form away from home.

The Galicians have won both of their last two away trips, at Malaga and Sevilla, but occupy the final relegation spot largely due to their terrible results at their home, Balaidos, where they are yet to win a game all season.

"It'll be a tough match because they are playing really well away from home," Prieto told reporters.

"They have a great team that plays good football, they have a refined style and take a lot of risks."

However, Prieto emphasised that Celta's attacking style could play into his team's hands, remarking:

"Celta usually have more possession than their opponents and, like us, they like to have the ball, so it should be an interesting battle. Teams that come and stay tight at the back sometimes suffocate us, so perhaps their tactics will benefit us."

La Real were humbled by a 5-1 defeat at the hands of Real Madrid in their last league match but have been showing encouraging signs at home, winning their last two league games at Anoeta 3-0 and 5-0, against Almeria and Osasuna respectively.

Prieto acknowledged that the team's home form played a large part in them qualifying for the Champions League last season, and hopes their stadium can continue to be a fortress.

He said: "We have been feeling comfortable at home and we hope we can win. Last year our home form was vital, and we hope it can be this year too.

"We've been playing well at home, against Almeria and Osasuna we didn't concede any goals and scored eight, so that's how we want to keep going."

Coach Jagoba Arrasate will be without injured midfielders Dani Estrada and Gorka Elustondo, while Celta will just be missing captain Borja Oubina, out with a fractured toe.

Celta defender Andreu Fontas stressed his side would have to "play really well overall if we are to return to Vigo with the victory" but admitted they fancied their chances.

"For reasons unknown to us, we are playing better away from home, so we believe we can get a good result," he said.