Our man in Spain, Phil Kitromilides, believes that the Basques can net at least a couple of goals against a visiting side who do not have the best defensive record
After a decade away from the competition, Real Sociedad play their opening fixture in this season's Champions League against Shakhtar Donetsk with the Spanish side clear - but not overwhelming - favorites.Paddy Power offer a victory for La Real at 13/10 (2.30) which is a healthy-looking price for a team with as good a home record as the Basques', while their Ukranian visitors are available at 11/5 (3.20).
The hosts come into the game off the back of a slightly unconvincing goalless draw at Levante, in which they created chances but failed to convert. It was only the second time in 26 league games that the team from San Sebastian had been unable to score though and, generally, Real Sociedad are good for at least one goal.
Indeed, they have netted at least two goals in eight of their last nine home games in all competition and a repeat is offered at 11/10 (2.10). Considering that Shakhtar have only kept one clean sheet in nine on the road in the Champions League (and that was against Apoel Nicosia), backing La Real to score twice looks a tempting option.
It is certainly a more appealing proposition than backing both teams to score at 4/6 (1.65) and against a Shakhtar side in poor domestic form who have conceded three times in each of their last two away league games, Real Sociedad to score over 1.5 goals is a solid selection for a small investmet.
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| BEST BET |
| Real Sociedad to score over 1.5 goals at 11/10 (2.10) 0.5pt stake with Paddy Power |
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Phil Kitromilides is a sports journalist and TV presenter in Madrid
