The real chess match here will be how Mikel Merino and Martín Zubimendi handle Villarreal's midfield engine, Dani Parejo. Sociedad's form has been a bit wobbly, with only two wins in their last six La Liga outings, including that disheartening 2-0 loss to Sevilla last weekend. Villarreal, on the other hand, is absolutely flying, unbeaten in 10 straight league games, scoring 23 goals in that span. Their 5-1 thrashing of Granada showed they're not just winning, they're dominating. I think Villarreal continues their red-hot streak.
Prediction: Real Sociedad 1, Villarreal 2.
Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. Not gambling advice.