Tokyo Verdy and Real Sociedad face off in an exciting post-season friendly on May 29, 2024. This match offers both teams a chance to test their mettle and finish their respective seasons on a high note.
Real Sociedad, coming off a successful La Liga campaign, is set to challenge Tokyo Verdy, who recently achieved promotion to Japan's J-League.
Team News
Tokyo Verdy
Tokyo Verdy's coach Hiroshi Jofuku will be without forward Ryosuke Shirai due to injury.
However, he is expected to field a strong lineup with captain Koki Morita anchoring the midfield and Itsuki Someno leading the attack.
Verdy has shown resilience this season, bouncing back from a 5-0 defeat to Machida Zelvia with a surprise 1-0 victory over Vissel Kobe.
Real Sociedad
Real Sociedad will travel to Tokyo without several key players.
Loan players Andre Silva and Kieran Tierney have returned to their parent clubs, and injuries have sidelined Robin Le Normand, Carlos Fernandez, Igor Zubeldia, and Martin Zubimendi.
Additionally, Mikel Merino, Mikel Oyarzabal, Umar Sadiq, and goalkeeper Alex Remiro have been excused from the trip.
Despite these absences, head coach Imanol Alguacil will rely on star player Take Kubo to lead the attack, supported by Sheraldo Becker.
Form Guide
Tokyo Verdy
Recent Form: WWDDLW
Tokyo Verdy recently ended an 11-game unbeaten run, which included eight draws.
They showed their capability by defeating J-League champions Vissel Kobe 1-0, significantly boosting their chances of staying in the top tier.
Real Sociedad
Recent Form: LWLWWL
Real Sociedad finished their La Liga season on a mixed note, securing a spot in the 2024-25 Europa League despite a series of tough matches against top teams like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid.
They managed only 11 points from their last 24 available but demonstrated their strength with a decisive 2-0 win over Real Betis.
Prediction
While Tokyo Verdy has shown resilience and strong form in their recent matches, Real Sociedad's quality and experience are likely to prevail.
Despite missing several key players, the Spanish side is expected to dominate the match.
Our Prediction: Tokyo Verdy 1-4 Real Sociedad
