Real Madrid vs Real Sociedad: A Crucial Copa del Rey Semifinal Clash at the Bernabéu

Real Madrid vs Real Sociedad: A Crucial Copa del Rey Semifinal Clash at the Bernabéu

On April 1, 2025, all eyes were on the Santiago Bernabéu as Real Madrid took on Real Sociedad in the second leg of their Copa del Rey semifinal, aiming to secure a spot in the final. The first leg ended with a 0-1 advantage for Madrid, giving them a crucial edge heading into the return match. Coach Carlo Ancelotti is determined to claim his third Copa del Rey title, but he knows the challenge is far from easy against a Real Sociedad side with positive memories from past Copa del Rey encounters at the Bernabéu.

Real Sociedad’s Historic Upsets

While the Bernabéu is considered a fortress for Real Madrid, Real Sociedad has had success here in the past, with three notable victories in the 21st century, including a memorable 4-3 win in 2020. That victory was especially remarkable as they knocked out Real Madrid in the quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey, stunning Madrid fans with a 1-4 performance. Sociedad’s recent form in the competition shows they’re capable of shocking Madrid once again, and with a 0-1 deficit, they know that a goal or two could turn the tie in their favor.

Madrid’s Key Players and Tactical Adjustments

Ancelotti’s squad, while confident in their advantage, will not take the game lightly. The likes of Vinícius, Tchouaméni, and Rodrygo, who were rested in the weekend’s La Liga fixture against Leganés, are expected to return to the starting lineup to ensure the team maintains its competitive edge. The coach is hoping to secure his third Copa del Rey final with Madrid, and a win here would further cement his legacy.

Andriy Lunin, continuing to fill in for the injured Thibaut Courtois, will remain in goal. In defense, David Alaba and Endrick, who has been in fine form in the Copa del Rey, will start. With key injuries sidelining Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, and Ferland Mendy, the team’s depth will be tested, but Ancelotti is optimistic about his side’s chances.

Kylian Mbappé, who has been in outstanding form, will start on the bench to make way for Endrick, who has been a revelation in the Copa del Rey, with four goals in as many matches. Ancelotti praised Mbappé’s contribution to the team, noting that the French forward has the potential to become a Madrid legend, much like Cristiano Ronaldo.

Real Sociedad’s Road to Recovery

On the other hand, Real Sociedad comes into the match with optimism despite their disadvantage. Coach Imanol Alguacil has managed to recover key players for the match, including Barrenetxea and Aguerd, both of whom will play vital roles in the team’s attacking and defensive strategies. However, the team will miss several key players due to injury, including Brais Méndez, Ávaro Odriozola, and Jon Pacheco, making the task of securing a comeback even harder.

The Basque club’s reliance on star players like Takefusa Kubo and Mikel Oyarzabal will be crucial. With their creativity and attacking prowess, they will aim to break through Madrid’s defense and possibly level the score on aggregate. The question remains: Can Sociedad overcome the odds and replicate their memorable 2020 upset?

Lineups: Real Madrid vs Real Sociedad

• Real Madrid (4-3-3): Lunin; Lucas Vázquez, Federico Valverde, Raúl Asencio, David Alaba; Tchouaméni, Camavinga, Bellingham; Rodrygo, Vinícius, Endrick.

• Real Sociedad (4-3-3): Remiro; Aramburu, Zubeldia, Aguerd, Aihen; Zubimendi, Marín, Sucic; Kubo, Oyarzabal, Barrenetxea.

Match Details:

• Referee: Alberola Rojas

• Venue: Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid

• Kick-off: 3:30 pm ET, 12:30 pm PT, 1:30 pm MX.

Final Thoughts:

The second leg of this Copa del Rey semifinal promises to be an electrifying encounter. Real Madrid holds the upper hand, but Real Sociedad’s resilience and history of upsets at the Bernabéu mean that nothing is decided yet. With so much at stake, fans from both sides will be eagerly awaiting what could be another classic Copa del Rey night.

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