In a thrilling encounter at the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid and Real Sociedad clashed in the second leg of the Copa del Rey 2024-2025 semi-finals. The stakes were high as Madrid aimed to defend their narrow 1-0 lead from the first leg, courtesy of a goal from young sensation Endrick. As the match unfolded, it became a battle of wills, with both teams showcasing their determination to secure a place in the final.
Real Madrid, under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti, entered the match with confidence, buoyed by their recent victory over Leganés just days prior. However, they faced a challenging scenario, missing key players Thibaut Courtois and Dani Carvajal due to injuries. Despite these setbacks, the squad remained formidable, featuring stars like Vinícius Junior and Rodrygo Goes, who were rested previously but ready to make an impact.
The match kicked off at 15:30 hours local time, and the atmosphere was electric, with fans filling the stands, eager to witness their team advance to the final. Real Sociedad, on the other hand, was determined to overturn the deficit. Having eliminated Real Madrid in the quarter-finals of the 2020 Copa del Rey, they knew what it took to upset the giants. Their captain, Mikel Oyarzabal, was in fine form, and the return of Nayef Aguerd added strength to their lineup.
As the first half progressed, both teams had their chances, with Sociedad pressing for an equalizer. However, Real Madrid's defense held firm, showcasing their resilience. The visitors struggled to convert their opportunities into goals, a recurring theme that had plagued them throughout the tournament. The half-time whistle blew with the score still 0-0, leaving Madrid in the driver's seat with their aggregate lead intact.
With the second half underway, Ancelotti's men intensified their efforts. They knew that a single goal could potentially seal the deal, forcing Sociedad to chase the game. The tension in the stadium was palpable as fans held their breath with every attack. Vinícius Junior, known for his pace and skill, began to find space, creating several dangerous opportunities for the home side.
However, it was Sociedad who struck first in the second half, catching Madrid off guard. A well-executed counter-attack saw Oyarzabal deliver a pinpoint cross into the box, where Orri Óskarsson made no mistake, heading the ball past Madrid's backup keeper. The stadium erupted in shock as the visitors celebrated their equalizer, leveling the aggregate score at 1-1.
Real Madrid, now facing a sudden surge of pressure, responded with urgency. Ancelotti made tactical adjustments, bringing on fresh legs to regain control of the match. The home side launched a series of relentless attacks, with Rodrygo and Endrick combining well on the left flank. Their efforts paid off when Endrick, showing composure beyond his years, found the back of the net with a stunning strike from just inside the area, restoring Madrid's lead to 2-1 on aggregate.
With the clock ticking down, Real Sociedad was forced to push forward in search of another goal. The match became increasingly frantic, with both sides exchanging chances. Madrid's defense, bolstered by the experience of their veterans, managed to withstand the pressure, while goalkeeper Buschchan made crucial saves to keep his team in the game.
As the final minutes approached, the tension reached a boiling point. Real Sociedad, desperate for an equalizer, threw everything forward. However, Madrid's backline held strong, and the home crowd erupted in cheers as the referee signaled for full-time. The match ended 2-1, with Real Madrid advancing to the Copa del Rey final on a 3-1 aggregate score.
After the match, Ancelotti praised his team's resilience and determination, stating, "We showed great character today, especially after conceding that early goal. The players responded well, and I'm proud of how they fought back to secure our place in the final." Meanwhile, Oyarzabal reflected on the match, saying, "We gave it our all, but it wasn't enough. We'll learn from this experience and come back stronger next season."
Real Madrid now looks ahead to the final, where they will aim to lift the Copa del Rey trophy once again, having last done so in 2023 against Osasuna. The excitement continues to build as fans eagerly await the final showdown, with the team poised to reclaim their place at the top of Spanish football.
