Real Madrid finds itself on the brink of advancing to the Copa del Rey final as they take on Real Sociedad in the first leg of their semifinal tie at the Reale Arena. The stakes are always high at this stage of the competition, and the expectation is palpable as kickoff draws near.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti has announced the starting lineup, which reflects strategic changes meant to offset the absence of key players. With Kylian Mbappe sidelined due to illness, among other absentees including Thibaut Courtois and Federico Valverde, Ancelotti has turned to two promising youngsters, Endrick and Arda Guler, to shoulder the offensive responsibilities alongside Vinicius Jr., who captains the side for the first time.
The 18-year-old Endrick takes center stage, aiming to make his mark after limited playing time this season. He has now been partnered up front with Vinicius Jr. and Guler, giving the Madrid attack an exciting youthful edge. Reportedly, both young talents hold significant potential, and fans are eager to see if they can rise to the occasion.
Accompanying Guler and Endrick up front is Jude Bellingham, who returns to the squad after serving a suspension. He joins Eduardo Camavinga and Dani Ceballos in the midfield, presenting both creativity and tenacity. Tchouameni has been surprisingly deployed as center-back, highlighting Madrid's reliance on tactical adjustments following injuries.
Real Sociedad, coached by Imanol Alguacil, will not make things easy for Los Blancos. The Basque club has had mixed fortunes this season but draws strength from playing at home, where they have previously inflicted defeats on heavyweight opponents. The atmosphere at the Reale Arena promises to be electric, with ticket sales surpassing expectations.
Fans are particularly focused on Martin Zubimendi, the Sociedad midfielder who has piqued Real Madrid's interest leading up to the summer transfer window. His well-rounded skills have made him a standout performer and should add another layer of intrigue to the match.
The match begins with Real Sociedad exhibiting early dominance, pushing Real Madrid back and almost breaking the deadlock. But halfway through the first half, Madrid showcased their composure. A brilliant pass from Bellingham sprung Endrick forward, who calmly placed the ball beyond Alex Remiro, putting Madrid 1–0 up.
That goal allowed Real Madrid to absorb the pressure from Sociedad and began to find their rhythm as Bellingham and Guler dazzled on the flanks. The early goal also allowed Vinicius Jr. to fulfill his role as captain with newfound confidence, commanding his teammates with determination.
Despite Madrid's lead, the team remains aware of the dangers posed by Sociedad. Mikel Oyarzabal's speed and Kubo's tricky footwork can quickly threaten any defense. Real Madrid's defenders, now spearheaded by Tchouameni, must keep tight, as one mistake could change the course of the game.
The physicality of the match ramps up, with key challenges flying from both sides as players vie for supremacy. Real Madrid seems to aim to dictate the pace and control possession, reflecting Ancelotti's long-standing football philosophy. Cancelling Sociedad's fast breaks will be fundamental.
The clock ticks on as Sociedad pushes for the equalizer, creating several promising chances, yet Lunin remains resolute. The young goalkeeper is reminding spectators why he is trusted with such responsibility, making several key saves and clearing threats effectively.
Going forward, it will be pivotal for both teams to capitalize on their opportunities, especially as Real Madrid prepares for another challenging fixture against high-flying teams both domestically and on the European scene. The expectation is high for Los Blancos to maintain their stellar playoff form, having already won the Intercontinental Cup and European Super Cup this season.
With anxious fans on the edge of their seats, the end of the first leg sees Real Madrid maintain their 1–0 lead, preparing for the return at the Santiago Bernabéu. The decisive battle at home will test whether they can hold their nerve or if Real Sociedad can unsettle them.
This Copa del Rey clash not only holds significant Cup implications but serves as another chapter in the storied rivalry between these two historic clubs. How Madrid navigates this challenge will define their season and aspirations as they attempt to add the coveted trophy to their already impressive haul.