Real Madrid managed to escape what seemed like impending disaster with a dramatic late comeback to secure their place in the semifinals of the Copa del Rey, defeating Leganés 3-2.
The quarter-final clash at Estadio Municipal Butarque saw Los Blancos take an early lead through Luka Modrić, who scored after being set up by Rodrygo Goes. Modrić's deft finish came in the 18th minute and put Real Madrid on the front foot.
Just minutes later, the lead was doubled when young talent Endrick Felipe capitalized on some defensive confusion to poke home from close range, marking his fifth goal this season. The visitors seemed to be cruising, but Leganés displayed remarkable resilience.
Near the end of the first half, Leganés were handed a lifeline when Jacobo Ramon was penalized for handling the ball. Defender Juan Cruz stepped up to take the penalty and converted confidently, reducing the deficit to 2-1. This goal shifted the momentum as the hosts started to believe they could mount a surprise.
Into the second half, the game turned even more thrilling. Leganés, competing fiercely for the ball, equalized just before the hour mark with Cruz again on the scoresheet. His shot took a deflection, catching goalkeeper Andriy Lunin off guard and bringing the scores level at 2-2.
With tensions high and both teams fighting for the win, Real Madrid began pushing for the winner. Vinícius Júnior's introduction at halftime nearly proved impactful as he rattled the crossbar with a powerful shot. Defenders also stepped up, as Federico Valverde and Endrick missed golden chances to reclaim the lead.
But just when it seemed the match was heading for penalties, substitute Gonzalo García delivered the decisive blow. Meeting Brahim Díaz's excellent cross with pinpoint precision, he found the back of the net with his header, scoring not only his first professional goal but also securing victory for his team.
This intense clash left Real Madrid with many lessons to glean, particularly about the effective management of their lead during the latter stages of the game. Despite Carlo Ancelotti's decision to field a weakened side, the character shown by his players when tested will undoubtedly be beneficial as they head later on.
Real Madrid's triumph places them firmly among the four finalists of the Copa del Rey, where they will meet fierce rivals Atlético Madrid, adding extra spice to the upcoming La Liga fixture against the same opponents. Meanwhile, other semi-final contenders will be determined from the matches involving Real Sociedad, Osasuna, Valencia, and Barcelona.
While the victory may not have come without its scares, it exemplified the grit and fighting spirit of Real Madrid, characteristics deeply woven within the club’s storied history.