Real Sociedad de Fútbol, founded in 1909 and based in the city of San Sebastián in the Basque Country, is one of Spain’s most respected football clubs. Known for its strong academy, stylish football, and deep community roots, the club has long balanced tradition with modern success. Nicknamed “La Real,” Real Sociedad has a proud domestic history and remains a regular fixture in both La Liga and European competitions. Matches at the Reale Arena (formerly Anoeta) are lively affairs, with passionate home support and an emphasis on footballing identity.
Real Sociedad tickets are popular among local supporters and international fans, especially for La Liga clashes and Basque derbies. With a loyal fanbase and an attractive playing style, La Real continues to draw admirers from across the footballing world.
Historic Real Sociedad Moments
The club’s greatest domestic triumphs came in the early 1980s, when Real Sociedad won back-to-back La Liga titles in the 1980–81 and 1981–82 seasons. Under the management of Alberto Ormaetxea and featuring a core of homegrown Basque talent, the team played disciplined, technical football and stunned the Spanish football establishment by beating the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona to the title.
Real Sociedad has also made a strong impression in cup competitions, including multiple Copa del Rey finals. In 2020 (played in 2021 due to postponements), the club defeated fierce rivals Athletic Club in the final, lifting their first major trophy in over three decades in a match that resonated deeply with their supporters.
| Trophy |
Year(s) |
| La Liga |
1980–81, 1981–82 |
| Copa del Rey |
1909, 1987, 2020 |
Memorable Moments
The final day of the 1980–81 La Liga season produced one of Real Sociedad’s greatest moments. A last-minute equaliser against Sporting Gijón secured the point needed to edge out Real Madrid on goal difference and claim the title—sparking unforgettable scenes of celebration in San Sebastián.
In April 2021, La Real lifted the delayed 2020 Copa del Rey trophy with a 1–0 win over Athletic Club in an all-Basque final. Mikel Oyarzabal’s penalty sealed victory in a historic match that highlighted the strength of Basque football and restored silverware to the club after a long wait.
Biggest Rivalries
Real Sociedad’s fiercest and most traditional rivalry is with Athletic Club, known as the Basque Derby. This fixture pits the two major clubs of the Basque Country against each other and is steeped in history, culture, and regional pride. While competitive, the rivalry is also marked by mutual respect and a celebration of shared identity, especially when both teams feature players developed through their youth systems.
Matches against other La Liga sides like Osasuna and Alavés also carry regional importance, but the clash with Athletic Club remains the standout fixture on the calendar for La Real supporters. These games are always highly anticipated and played with fierce intensity on both sides.
Stadium Atmosphere
The Reale Arena, previously known as Estadio Anoeta, is one of Spain’s most modern and visually stunning stadiums. Following major renovations, the ground now holds over 39,000 spectators and offers a vibrant, immersive matchday experience. The proximity of the stands to the pitch creates a wall of noise, particularly during derbies and European nights.
Fans of Real Sociedad, known for their loyalty and passion, create a respectful yet energetic environment. The blue and white colours dominate the stadium, and coordinated chants echo throughout the venue as supporters urge their team forward.
Ticket Information
Real Sociedad tickets are available for all home matches at the Reale Arena, with high demand for fixtures against major La Liga clubs and for Basque derbies. With the club consistently competing in European competitions, ticket availability may be limited for high-stakes fixtures.
SafeTicketCompare lists Real Sociedad tickets from trusted sources, giving fans a reliable option for securing seats. Whether you’re a local supporter or a visiting fan seeking an authentic La Liga experience, attending a match in San Sebastián is not to be missed.
