In a closely contested first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals, Real Madrid secured a 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad at the Reale Arena in San Sebastián on February 26, 2025. The decisive goal came from 18-year-old Brazilian striker Endrick, who capitalized on a precise pass from Jude Bellingham in the 19th minute. This win provides Real Madrid with a slender advantage as they prepare for the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu.
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Match Overview
Real Madrid entered the match with a rotated squad, as manager Carlo Ancelotti opted to rest key players including Thibaut Courtois, Federico Valverde, and Kylian Mbappé. Despite these changes, the team displayed cohesion and determination from the outset. The midfield trio of Aurélien Tchouaméni, Dani Ceballos, and Jude Bellingham orchestrated play effectively, while the defensive line, marshaled by Antonio Rüdiger and Fran García, remained resolute against Real Sociedad's advances.
The home side, under the guidance of Imanol Alguacil, sought to leverage their home advantage and recent strong performances. Players like Mikel Oyarzabal and Takefusa Kubo were pivotal in creating opportunities, but they faced a well-organized Real Madrid defense that limited clear-cut chances.
Key Moments
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19th Minute – Goal: Jude Bellingham intercepted a pass in midfield and quickly launched a counter-attack. Spotting Endrick's intelligent run, Bellingham delivered a perfectly weighted through ball. Endrick controlled it adeptly and slotted it past goalkeeper Álex Remiro, marking his first goal in the Copa del Rey for Real Madrid.
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50th Minute – Near Miss: Early in the second half, Endrick nearly doubled Real Madrid's lead. After a swift combination with Vinícius Júnior, Endrick's shot beat Remiro but ricocheted off the crossbar, denying him a brace.
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87th Minute – Bellingham's Attempt: As the match approached its conclusion, Bellingham unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box. Remiro showcased his reflexes, tipping the ball over the bar to keep Real Sociedad within touching distance.
Tactical Analysis
Ancelotti's decision to rest key players and field a youthful lineup paid dividends. The midfield's energy and pressing disrupted Real Sociedad's rhythm, while the defense maintained a high line to compress space. Vinícius Júnior, wearing the captain's armband for the first time, led by example with his relentless runs and defensive contributions.
Real Sociedad, known for their possession-based play, struggled to penetrate Real Madrid's compact setup. Attempts to exploit the flanks were met with resilience from Real Madrid's full-backs, and central channels were effectively clogged by Tchouaméni and Ceballos.
Controversial Moment
In the first half, the match was momentarily halted as referee José María Sánchez Martínez activated the anti-racism protocol. This decision underscored the ongoing efforts to combat discriminatory behavior in football.
Looking Ahead
The narrow victory sets the stage for a compelling second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu. Real Madrid will aim to capitalize on their home advantage, while Real Sociedad will be determined to overturn the deficit. The return fixture is scheduled for early April, with both teams having ample time to strategize and prepare.
In the other semifinal, FC Barcelona and Atlético Madrid played out a thrilling 4-4 draw, leaving their tie finely poised. The prospect of a Clásico or a Madrid derby in the final adds an extra layer of intrigue to this season's Copa del Rey.
Player Spotlight: Endrick
Endrick's performance has garnered significant attention. Stepping in for the absent Mbappé, the young Brazilian showcased composure beyond his years. His movement off the ball, combined with clinical finishing, suggests a bright future ahead. Ancelotti's faith in youth continues to be rewarded, as players like Endrick rise to the occasion on significant stages.
Conclusion
Real Madrid's 1-0 away win against Real Sociedad highlights the depth and versatility of their squad. With a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents, Los Blancos are well-positioned as they approach the decisive second leg. However, Real Sociedad's resilience and tactical acumen ensure that the tie remains open, promising an exciting encounter in Madrid.
_HYPE INTRO Staff