In a thrilling encounter at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Real Madrid triumphed over Real Sociedad with a 5-4 aggregate score after extra time in the Copa del Rey semi-final on April 2, 2025. This victory marked the 41st time in club history that Real Madrid has advanced to the Copa del Rey final, where they will face either Barcelona or Atletico Madrid.
The match started with Real Sociedad taking an early lead in the 16th minute, as Ander Barrenetxea scored a low shot past Real Madrid's goalkeeper Andriy Lunin after a well-placed pass from Pablo Marin. Real Madrid, who had won the first leg 1-0, needed to respond quickly, and they did just that. In the 30th minute, 18-year-old Brazilian sensation Endrick equalized with a deft chip over the advancing goalkeeper, making it 1-1.
As the second half unfolded, the tide turned dramatically against Real Madrid. In the 71st minute, an unfortunate own goal by Eder Militão put Real Sociedad back in front at 2-1. Just eight minutes later, Mikel Oyarzabal extended Sociedad's lead to 3-1 with a shot that deflected off David Alaba, leaving the aggregate score at 4-3 in favor of the visitors.
However, Real Madrid's resolve shone through in the final minutes of regulation. In the 82nd minute, Jude Bellingham scored, reducing the deficit to 3-2. The excitement reached its peak when, in the 86th minute, Aurelien Tchouameni scored a header from a corner taken by Rodrygo, leveling the aggregate score at 4-4 and sending the match into extra time.
As the extra period began, both teams fought fiercely for the advantage. In a dramatic twist, Real Sociedad's Oyarzabal scored again in the 93rd minute, seemingly sealing the match for his side. But Real Madrid was not done yet. In the 115th minute, Antonio Rüdiger emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive header from a corner taken by Arda Guler, clinching a 5-4 aggregate victory.
This match was not just significant for the players but also for the fans, with tennis legend Rafael Nadal present in the stands, visibly excited as the action unfolded. After the match, Tchouameni shared his thoughts, stating, "We are happy to have reached the final, but we need to play better than we did today."
Real Madrid's coach Carlo Ancelotti made the strategic decision to rest star forward Kylian Mbappe for this match, a move that raised eyebrows but ultimately proved effective as the team showcased depth and resilience. The upcoming final in Seville promises to be an electrifying showdown against either Barcelona or Atletico Madrid, two teams with rich histories and fierce rivalries with Real Madrid.
As fans eagerly await the final, the excitement surrounding Real Madrid's journey in the Copa del Rey continues to build. The team will need to harness the lessons learned from this dramatic match as they prepare for the challenges ahead. With a blend of young talent and experienced players, Real Madrid is poised to make a strong statement in the final.
In summary, this match against Real Sociedad was not just a test of skill but also of character, with Real Madrid demonstrating their ability to come back from adversity. The stage is set for a thrilling Copa del Rey final, and fans can expect nothing less than an epic clash.
