Real Madrid are heading for extra time in their Copa del Rey semi-final tie as Real Sociedad have scored again in their second leg meeting at the Santiago Bernabeu. Carlo Ancelotti rested the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Antonio Rudiger, and Fran Garcia for this one, and that decision did not go well in the opening stages. It took 16 minutes for La Real to break the deadlock at the Santiago Bernabeu, with the goal coming from winger Ander Barrenetxea after a fine assist from Pablo Marin.
Fortunately for Real Madrid, they managed to get back level with a goal that came from Endrick Felipe, who scored for the fourth time in five appearances in this season’s Copa del Rey. However, they have now fallen behind again on the night as David Alaba has turned the ball into his own net. It's an own goal from David Alaba and Real Sociedad make it 2-2 on aggregate once again!
As the match unfolded, it was evident that Real Madrid faced a critical moment in their season. Manager Carlo Ancelotti had made strategic decisions, contemplating resting some key players, but the pressure was mounting. Following a 1-0 victory in the first leg, the stakes were high, and the atmosphere at the Bernabeu was electric.
In the first leg, Real Madrid had secured a slim advantage thanks to a goal from the young Brazilian sensation Endrick. Yet, in the return fixture, the tides turned quickly. Barrenetxea’s early goal stunned the home crowd, and the pressure was on for Real Madrid to respond. With the aggregate score tied at 2-2, the urgency increased.
Endrick's equalizer brought a wave of relief to the Madrid fans, showcasing his talent as he deftly chipped the ball over the goalkeeper. This marked his seventh goal of the season, with five of those coming in the Copa del Rey, highlighting his importance to the squad. Vinicius Junior’s assist added another layer of excitement, as fans marveled at the young duo’s chemistry.
However, the match took another turn when Alaba inadvertently scored an own goal, a moment that left the players and fans in disbelief. The Austrian defender had already been under scrutiny, and this blunder only intensified the spotlight on him. With Sociedad leading 2-1 on the night, the aggregate score stood at 2-2, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
As the second half progressed, the tension escalated. Real Madrid needed to find a way to regain control and avoid the looming threat of extra time. Ancelotti's tactical adjustments were crucial. He had opted to rest Rudiger, placing Alaba in central defense alongside Asensio, a move that raised eyebrows given Alaba’s recent form.
Despite the setbacks, Real Madrid's attacking lineup was still formidable. Featuring players like Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo, and the ever-dangerous Mbappe, the team had the firepower to turn the match around. Yet, concerns lingered over Vinicius’ inconsistent scoring, which could prove detrimental in such high-stakes encounters.
In the 80th minute, Real Sociedad unexpectedly surged ahead 3-1, with Mikel Oyarzabal capitalizing on Alaba's misfortunes. The atmosphere in the Bernabeu shifted dramatically as fans grappled with disbelief. The pressure was palpable, and Real Madrid needed to respond quickly.
As if scripted for a thrilling finale, Real Madrid clawed their way back into the match. Goals from Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouameni brought the score to 3-3, igniting hope among the home supporters. Tchouameni's goal was particularly historic, marking the 10,000th goal in Real Madrid's illustrious history.
However, just when it seemed Madrid might secure a place in the final, Oyarzabal struck again for Sociedad in added time, making it 4-3. The match had turned into a rollercoaster of emotions, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
With the aggregate score now 4-3 in favor of Sociedad, the clock was ticking, and Real Madrid faced a daunting task. Ancelotti's decision to replace Alaba with Antonio Rudiger in extra time proved pivotal. The German defender, eager to make an impact, scored a crucial equalizer in the 115th minute, leveling the match at 4-4.
This dramatic turn of events set the aggregate score at 5-4 in favor of Real Madrid, securing their place in the Copa del Rey final. The players celebrated, knowing they had overcome significant adversity to reach this milestone.
As the dust settled, Real Madrid looked ahead to the final, where they would face the winner of the other semi-final between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. The stakes were high, and the pressure would only increase as they aimed to add another trophy to their cabinet.
In the broader context of La Liga, Barcelona currently leads the standings with 66 points, while Real Madrid trails closely behind with 63 points. The race for the league title remains tight, and both teams are vying for supremacy.
Looking ahead, Real Madrid will face Valencia in their next league match, while Real Sociedad is set to take on Las Palmas. The excitement surrounding these fixtures only adds to the anticipation as the season reaches its climax.
In conclusion, Real Madrid's journey in the Copa del Rey has been nothing short of exhilarating. With the final on the horizon, fans are left wondering if this remarkable comeback will propel them to further glory this season.
