I think Real Sociedad also knows that they really need this win and maybe they will also maximize their next match in the Champions League without having to tire their players. Their current position is not very safe after not getting good results in the last few matches so they have to win again against Villarreal. The previous victory against Mallorca was a special motivation for the players and they will not hesitate to make Villarreal submit at home.
If Real Sociedad realizes this match is important, they will play better. In fact, Real Sociedad only won the ball possessions and made many shot attempts but they scored 0 goals. Villareal even could play better, they are leading with 2 goals now although they only have a very little chance to score goals. They made 3 shot on target, they succeed scored 2 goals.
With this defeat, Real Sociedad isn't safe in the top 5 of La Liga table. Real Betis has a chance to overtake them now.
Well, I don't see a chance that Real Sociedad can finish this season in UCL zone. I think the realistic target is to finish at the top 5 of the table.