Liga Sunday Preview: Sociedad Look To Remain Top

Real Sociedad will be looking to chalk up a much-needed victory as they travel south to meet Real Betis in the Manuel Ruiz de Lopera. While Spain waits for the Basque's bubble to burst, Raynald Denoueix is keeping quiet and attempting to change his side's fortunes after losing 3-0 against Athletic Bilao and a goalless draw against Espanyol in their last two outings. Betis are battling for a Champions League place, but those hopes have taken a blow following two consectuive defeats.

Real Madrid have told Osasuna that they will have to stump up a substantial sum if they want to field Valdo. Despite having some of the world's best players in their ranks to counter-act the threat he may pose, Madrid have basically ruled out any chance of their on-loan player making an appearance against them. Osasuna is already an unfriendly place for the European champions to go to and they will have made their reception even hotter with this move. Madrid can go top if Sociedad slip, while Osasuna will be looking for maximum points to move them away from teh drop zone.

Recreativo de Huelva have shown signs that they are capable of making a dramatic bid to retain their first division status next term. Seven points from their last four games has almost doubled their tally for the entire season and brought them somewhat closer to the pack above. But their trip to Celta Vigo seems like a lost cause as the Galicians look to add three points to their Champions League bid. But Sevilla won at the Balaidos two weeks ago and Recre would do well to follow their Andalucian-neighbours' lead.

In Sunday's other matches Athletic Bilbao entertain Sevilla, Villarreal travel to Alaves, Racing Santander welcome Rayo Vallecano to El Sardinero and Atletico Madrid play host to Mallorca.