As the 2024/25 Copa del Rey reaches its thrilling semifinal stage, all eyes are on the Santiago Bernabéu as Real Madrid prepares to host Real Sociedad on April 1, 2025. This highly anticipated match comes on the heels of a narrow 1-0 victory for Madrid in the first leg, courtesy of a goal from young star Endrick. The stakes couldn't be higher as both teams vie for a coveted spot in the final, set to take place on April 26, 2025, in La Cartuja, Seville.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 9:30 PM local time in Spain, which translates to various times across Mexico: 1:30 PM in Mexico City (CT), 12:30 PM in Tijuana (PT), and 2:30 PM in Cancún (ET). Fans in Mexico can catch the action live on SKY Sports or stream it via SKY Blue To Go, ensuring they won't miss a moment of this thrilling encounter.
Real Madrid enters this match with a slight edge, having secured a win in the first leg thanks to a well-placed shot from Endrick in the 19th minute. The young Brazilian was assisted by Jude Bellingham, showcasing the promising partnership that has developed this season. Carlo Ancelotti's squad is riding high after a recent run of form, including a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory against Leganés, where Kylian Mbappé stole the show with two goals.
However, the Merengues will have to navigate this crucial match without several key players. Injuries have sidelined Ferland Mendy, Éder Militão, Dani Carvajal, and Dani Ceballos, prompting Ancelotti to adjust his lineup. Despite these setbacks, Real Madrid remains a formidable force, currently positioned second in LaLiga, trailing only Barcelona, and advancing to the quarterfinals of the Champions League against Arsenal.
In contrast, Real Sociedad faces a challenging task. Currently sitting tenth in LaLiga, Imanol Alguacil's team has struggled with inconsistency, recording just one win in their last five matches, alongside two draws and two losses. Their recent elimination from the Europa League at the hands of Manchester United has added to their woes. Nevertheless, Sociedad is determined to overturn the deficit and has a solid track record in the Copa del Rey, having progressed through the earlier rounds with impressive victories.
To reach this stage of the tournament, Real Sociedad showcased their resilience. They began their Copa del Rey journey with a commanding 5-0 win over Jove, followed by narrow victories against Conquense (1-0), Ponferradina (2-0), Rayo Vallecano (3-1), and Osasuna (2-0). Now, they face the daunting challenge of needing at least one goal to force extra time, and a victory by two or more goals would see them through to the final.
As the match approaches, the betting odds reflect the expectations. Real Madrid is favored at -275, while a draw is set at +410, and a victory for Real Sociedad stands at +650. The odds suggest that the home side is the clear favorite, but in knockout football, anything can happen.
The atmosphere at the Bernabéu is expected to be electric, with fans eager to support their team in this critical encounter. Real Madrid's history in the Copa del Rey is illustrious, and they will be looking to add another trophy to their cabinet. On the other hand, Real Sociedad hopes to defy the odds and book their place in the final, igniting their supporters with a memorable performance.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, both teams are preparing for what promises to be an intense and thrilling match. With the prospect of a place in the final hanging in the balance, fans can expect a hard-fought contest filled with drama, skill, and the passion that defines Spanish football.
The winner of this semifinal will face the victor of the other semifinal clash between Barcelona and Atlético Madrid, which will be decided on April 2, 2025. After an exhilarating 4-4 draw in the first leg, that matchup is sure to be just as compelling.
In conclusion, the stage is set for an unforgettable showdown between Real Madrid and Real Sociedad. As both teams prepare to battle for glory, fans around the world will be watching closely to see who will emerge victorious and secure their place in the final of the Copa del Rey.
