Real Madrid has kicked off the Copa del Rey semi-finals with a narrow 1-0 victory against Real Sociedad at the Reale Arena on February 26, 2025. The match saw Real Madrid striving for their first cup title since the 2021-22 season, making this win particularly significant as they move one step closer to the final.
The only goal of the match came from the young Brazilian star Endrick, who showcased his skills by finishing decisively after receiving a brilliant diagonal pass from Jude Bellingham. This goal not only highlights Endrick's growing influence within the team but marks his third consecutive goal in the Copa del Rey, asserting his place as one of the talents to watch.
Despite missing key players like Kylian Mbappé, Thibaut Courtois, and Fede Valverde, Real Madrid demonstrated their depth and resilience. Manager Carlo Ancelotti opted for Andriy Lunin as the starting goalkeeper and made several tactical changes, including positioning Eduardo Camavinga and Dani Ceballos effectively to manage the midfield. Vinicius Junior captained the team for the first time, bringing leadership to the field.
Real Sociedad began the match with aspirations of securing their first Copa del Rey final appearance since the 2019-20 season. They have shown strong form recently, and the home crowd was eager to support their team against the Spanish giants. From the outset, Sociedad pressed, attempting to convert early chances, but struggled to find the final touch.
During the first half, it was Real Madrid who took advantage of their opportunities. The opening goal came after 19 minutes when Bellingham threaded the ball through to Endrick, who, after skillfully controlling the ball, expertly placed it past Sociedad's goalkeeper Alex Remiro. The goal clearly shifted the dynamics of the match, compelling Sociedad to chase the game.
The hosts fought back, creating several chances, but were consistently thwarted by Lunin's impressive saves. A notable moment was when Mikel Oyarzabal was denied from close range, illustrating Lunin's agile performance throughout the match. Ancelotti praised his goalkeeper post-game, highlighting his contribution to maintaining the lead.
Controversy struck late in the first half when chants directed at Raul ASencio, calling for him to die, led to the match being temporarily paused. This incident drew attention as ASencio has been under scrutiny for unrelated issues, and Vinicius took the initiative to report the chants, prompting the referee to activate the necessary protocols. Ancelotti later substituted ASencio for Lucas Vázquez at halftime, explaining, "I took him off because of two things, he was affected, and he had a yellow card, so I preferred to take him off." Oyarzabal, speaking afterward, condemned the chants, remarking, "The insults should be condemned, we don't like them."
The second half saw Madrid maintaining control, with Vinicius and Endrick both attempting to extend the lead. Endrick hit the crossbar with one powerful shot, demonstrating Madrid's attacking threat. The midfield duo of Camavinga and Ceballos managed the flow of play, creating several more chances but failing to capitalize.
On the other side, Sociedad made multiple attempts to equalize, with Takefusa Kubo and Oyarzabal both coming close but being met with strong defending and Lunin's quick reflexes. The match seemed to tease another goal at both ends, yet neither could convert their chances.
The final whistle confirmed Madrid's decisive victory, leaving them with the advantage heading to the second leg of the semi-finals at Santiago Bernabéu on April 1. This first leg victory sets the stage for what should be another thrilling encounter, with Sociedad determined to overturn the deficit on their home ground.
Overall, the match highlighted Real Madrid's ability to adapt under pressure and the importance of their young talents stepping up on such significant occasions. With tensions running high, the second leg promises to be just as competitive and engaging, as both teams vie for the valuable spot in the final.
Looking forward, Ancelotti's men will prepare to take on La Liga challenges and the Champions League, but the focus will be on clinching the Copa del Rey, which could be pivotal for their season.