In a thrilling Copa del Rey semifinal that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Real Madrid and Real Sociedad battled to a dramatic 4-4 draw at the Santiago Bernabéu on April 1, 2025. The match, which saw both teams exchange leads, ended with Real Madrid advancing to the final after a tense penalty shootout, securing their place for the final showdown on April 26 in La Cartuja, Sevilla.
The atmosphere was electric as both teams took to the field, with Real Sociedad needing a victory to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg. They came out strong, looking to make history against the illustrious Madrid side. The match started with Real Madrid controlling possession, but it was Real Sociedad who struck first. In the 16th minute, Ander Barrenetxea capitalized on a defensive error, scoring from close range after a well-placed header by Pablo Marín. This early goal sent shockwaves through the Bernabéu, putting the home side on the back foot.
Real Madrid responded quickly, and just 13 minutes later, young star Endrick leveled the score with a deft chip over goalkeeper Álex Remiro, assisted by Vinícius Júnior. The Brazilian’s calm finish brought the home crowd back to life as they rallied behind their team.
As the first half progressed, both teams had chances, but neither could capitalize. Real Sociedad's Takefusa Kubo was particularly dangerous, creating opportunities but failing to find the back of the net. The first half concluded with the score tied at 1-1, setting the stage for a nail-biting second half.
The second half saw Real Madrid start to find their rhythm, with Jude Bellingham and Aurélien Tchouaméni increasingly influential in the midfield. In the 81st minute, Bellingham scored to give Madrid a 2-1 lead, finishing off a slick move initiated by Vinícius, who delivered a pinpoint cross. The home fans erupted, sensing that their team was on the verge of securing a place in the final.
However, the drama was far from over. Just minutes later, Mikel Oyarzabal equalized for Real Sociedad with a powerful header, assisted by Kubo. The visitors’ resilience shone through as they refused to back down, bringing the score to 2-2.
As the match approached its climax, the tension escalated. In a moment of sheer chaos, David Alaba inadvertently scored an own goal, putting Real Sociedad ahead 3-2 in the 72nd minute. The Bernabéu fell silent, with the away fans celebrating wildly.
Yet, Real Madrid’s fighting spirit was undeniable. Tchouaméni restored parity with a header in the 86th minute, capitalizing on a corner taken by Rodrygo. The crowd roared as the match was once again tied at 3-3.
As the clock ticked down, the drama reached its peak. In the dying moments of the match, Oyarzabal struck again, scoring in the 90+3 minute to give Real Sociedad a shocking 4-3 lead. The visitors were on the brink of an upset, but Madrid wasn’t finished yet. Just when it seemed all hope was lost, Antonio Rüdiger rose to the occasion, scoring a header from a corner in the 114th minute, sending the match into extra time.
During the extra period, both teams showed signs of fatigue but continued to push for the winning goal. Rüdiger’s goal had sparked a renewed sense of urgency in the Madrid camp. The match was a rollercoaster, with each team creating chances but failing to convert. Finally, after a tense penalty shootout, Real Madrid emerged victorious, sealing their place in the final.
This match exemplified the drama and unpredictability of knockout football. Real Madrid will face the winner of the other semifinal between Atlético Madrid and Barcelona, while Real Sociedad can hold their heads high after a valiant effort.
As the dust settles on this incredible encounter, fans will remember this match not just for the goals but for the heart, passion, and resilience displayed by both sides. The Copa del Rey final is set to be an exciting showdown, and Madrid will be eager to capture another title.
