On January 5, 2025, SD Ponferradina will face Real Sociedad at El Toralín Stadium as part of the Copa del Rey Round of 16. This match has generated considerable excitement among fans and both teams, with kickoff scheduled for 15:30 hours.
Ponferradina, competing in Spain's Second Federation, enters this match with high morale following three consecutive victories leading them to the upper echelons of their league table. The team, under coach Javi Rey, aims for what would be their first-ever advancement to the Copa del Rey octavos de final, but they will do so without their standout offensive player, Álex Costa, who is sidelined due to injury. Despite this setback, the squad is determined to leverage the supportive atmosphere at El Toralín, hoping to pull off an upset against their higher-ranked opponents.
Real Sociedad, meanwhile, approaches the match with ambitions to repeat their past successes within this tournament, having won the Copa del Rey previously and reached the semifinals last season. Coach Imanol Alguacil's squad is bolstered by key players like Mikel Oyarzábal and the returning Arsen Zakharyan, whose presence adds depth and experience to the team. The txuriurdines are fully aware of the challenges presented by Ponferradina, especially after their near-miss against Conquense earlier, where they scraped through with only a 1-0 victory.
The match day promises to be festive, with Ponferradina organizing pre-game activities for fans, such as free portions of traditional stew available to those with match tickets. Approximately 8,000 supporters are expected to fill the stands, creating what should be a lively and intimidating atmosphere for the visitors. Real Sociedad’s mission is clear: to avoid any missteps and demonstrate their class on the pitch.
Confirmed line-ups for the game have been released. Ponferradina will field Ángel, Novoa, Lancho, Ernesto, Andoni López, with Borja Valle, Mula, Markel, and Jorrín supporting Doué. The team is blending experience and agility, tasked with containing Real Sociedad’s offense and seizing opportunities on the counter. On the other side, Real Sociedad will start with Marrero; Aramburu, Zubeldia, Pacheco, and Javi López at the back, supported by Turrientes and Olasagasti anchoring the midfield. Sergio Gómez, Oyarzábal, and Óskarsson will spearhead the attack, aiming to deliver offensive pressure throughout the match.
Both teams have contrasting histories and ambitions concerning the tournament. For Ponferradina, this match provides a chance to create history. For Real Sociedad, it’s about showcasing their top-tier quality and solidifying their status as favorites to progress. After enduring disappointing results, the stakes are particularly high, and the knockout format of the Copa del Rey amplifies the tension as every game can lead to elimination if not navigated prudently.
With the players now taking to the field, anticipation is palpable. The opening whistle will not just signal the start of the match but the beginning of what both teams hope to be the commencement of successful campaigns within one of Spain’s prestigious cup competitions. Every pass, shot, and decision will be pivotal as they carve their paths toward glory. Will Ponferradina manage to create history at home, or will Real Sociedad prove too strong, continuing their pursuit for silverware? Only time will tell.