Real Sociedad's Crucial 1-0 Champions League Victory

 Real Sociedad's Crucial 1-0 Champions League Victory

Brais Mendez of Real Sociedad (C) tries to escape Alexander Bah (L) and Orkun Kokcu of SL Benfica (R) during the UEFA Champions League, Group D match between SL Benfica and Real Sociedad at Estadio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica on October 24, 2023 in Lisbon, Portugal(Image-Getty)

Real Sociedad clinched a crucial 1-0 away victory against Benfica, securing the top spot in Champions League Group D on goal difference, surpassing Inter Milan, who triumphed 2-1 over FC Salzburg earlier on Tuesday.

Despite both teams having first-half goals disallowed for offside, the deadlock persisted until the 63rd minute when Brais Mendez broke through, capitalizing on Ander Barrenetxea's impressive buildup play to score with a deflected effort from the edge of the six-yard box.

Benfica intensified their offensive efforts in the final moments, and Fredrik Aursnes had a prime opportunity to equalize in the 87th minute. However, the midfielder's hasty shot made it easy for Real Sociedad's keeper, Alex Remiro, to make the crucial save.

With this victory, Real Sociedad leads the group with seven points, followed by Inter Milan in second place, and Salzburg in third place with three points. Benfica currently languishes at the bottom of the group, having failed to secure any points in their three matches in the tournament thus far.