In a thrilling Copa del Rey semifinal clash at the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid faced Real Sociedad in the second leg on April 2, 2025. The match concluded with a 1-1 draw on the night, allowing Real Madrid to advance 2-1 on aggregate, thanks to a crucial equalizer from Brazilian wonderkid Endrick.
Real Madrid, holding a slender 1-0 lead from the first leg, entered the match determined to secure their place in the Copa del Rey final. With manager Carlo Ancelotti at the helm, the team boasted a rich history in the tournament, having won the Copa del Rey 20 times, with their last triumph in 2023. Meanwhile, Real Sociedad, who last lifted the trophy in 2020, aimed to pull off an upset and reach the final.
The match kicked off with both teams showing intent. Real Sociedad started strong, taking control of the ball early on. However, it was Madrid who created the first real chance when Endrick attempted an audacious bicycle kick that went wide in the 8th minute. The Brazilian was clearly eager to make an impact from the start.
Despite Madrid's early pressure, it was Real Sociedad who struck first. In the 16th minute, Ander Barrenetxea found space in the box and deftly slotted the ball through the legs of Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin, giving the visitors a 1-0 lead and leveling the aggregate score at 1-1. The goal sent shockwaves through the Bernabéu, as Sociedad fans celebrated their team's early success.
Real Madrid quickly sought to respond, with Jude Bellingham missing a chance shortly after, firing wide of the far post in the 20th minute. The home side continued to press, and their efforts paid off in the 30th minute when Endrick scored a well-deserved equalizer. Receiving a brilliant outside-of-the-boot pass from Vinicius Junior, Endrick maintained his composure, chipping the ball over Sociedad's goalkeeper Álex Remiro to make it 1-1.
With the score now 1-1 on the night and 2-1 on aggregate, Madrid appeared to regain control of the match. They dominated possession for the remainder of the first half, with Vinicius and Endrick combining well to create opportunities. However, despite their efforts, the first half concluded with both teams level.
As the second half began, Real Sociedad knew they had to score at least one more goal to stay in the tie. They kicked off the second half with renewed determination, but Madrid quickly earned a corner in the 46th minute, signaling their intent to extend their lead.
Throughout the second half, the tension mounted as both teams battled for supremacy. Sociedad's manager Imanol Alguacil made tactical adjustments, but Madrid's defense held firm. The visitors struggled to find clear-cut chances, often resorting to counter-attacks that failed to penetrate Madrid's organized backline.
Real Madrid continued to threaten, with Vinicius Junior and Endrick both looking lively. In the 42nd minute, Endrick had another opportunity to score but sent his shot over the crossbar. The home crowd remained vocal, urging their team to secure their place in the final.
As the match approached its conclusion, Real Sociedad fought valiantly to find a late equalizer, but time was not on their side. Three minutes of added time were announced, and the visitors pushed forward in a desperate attempt to level the aggregate score.
In the end, the match finished 1-1, with Real Madrid advancing to the Copa del Rey final with a 2-1 aggregate victory. Ancelotti's side will now await the winner of the other semifinal between Atlético Madrid and Barcelona, looking to claim another Copa del Rey title.
After the match, Ancelotti expressed pride in his team's performance, stating, "We showed resilience and quality tonight. Endrick's goal was vital, and we controlled the game well after that. Now, we focus on the final." Meanwhile, Alguacil praised his team's effort, saying, "We fought hard and had our chances, but it wasn't enough. We will learn from this and come back stronger next season."
With the final set to take place later this month, all eyes will be on Real Madrid as they aim for their 21st Copa del Rey title, while Real Sociedad will reflect on a season filled with potential yet ultimately falling short in the knockout stages.
