Real Madrid Secures Copa del Rey Semifinal Win Against Real Sociedad
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Real Madrid has taken a significant step towards advancing to the Copa del Rey final, securing a 1-0 win against Real Sociedad in the semifinal first leg. The winning goal was scored by Endrick, who finished stylishly at the near post after being sent through on goal by Jude Bellingham. This victory comes as a relief for Real Madrid, especially considering the absence of their star forward Kylian Mbappe, who was unable to play due to a tooth problem. Mbappe, who has been in outstanding form with 14 goals so far in 2025, had a tooth removed earlier in the week and was not included in the matchday squad.
Despite Mbappe's absence, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti was confident that his team could still secure a win. Ancelotti had initially stated that Mbappe would be available for the match, but later confirmed that he would not be playing. The Italian coach also chose to rotate his side, giving starts to Arda Guler, Fran Garcia, and Eduardo Camavinga, and resting midfielder Federico Valverde and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. The decision to rotate the squad was likely made with the upcoming La Liga match against Real Betis and the Champions League last 16 clash against Atletico Madrid in mind.
The match was not without controversy, as it was briefly paused due to chants of "Asencio die" being aimed at Real Madrid defender Raul Asencio. A video also emerged on social media of a Real Sociedad fan appearing to make monkey gestures at Vinicius Junior while the game was stopped. Despite these incidents, Real Madrid was able to maintain their focus and secure the win. Endrick's goal was his sixth of the campaign, with four of those coming in the Copa del Rey. The 18-year-old attacker has been given the most chance to shine in the competition by Ancelotti, and he has certainly taken advantage of the opportunities.
The win sets Real Madrid up nicely for the second leg, which will be played at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium on April 1. Real Sociedad will be looking to mount a comeback, but they will have to do so without the advantage of playing at home. The Copa del Rey is a highly competitive tournament, and Real Madrid will need to be at their best if they are to advance to the final. The team's La Liga campaign is also heating up, with a match against Real Betis scheduled for this weekend. Additionally, the Champions League last 16 clash against Atletico Madrid is just around the corner, making the next few weeks crucial for Real Madrid's season.
Here are the match scores and player statistics:
- Match score: Real Madrid 1, Real Sociedad 0
- Goalscorer: Endrick (19')
- Assist: Jude Bellingham
- Shots on target: Real Madrid 5, Real Sociedad 3
- Yellow cards: Real Madrid 2, Real Sociedad 2
- La Liga: Real Betis vs. Real Madrid (Saturday)
- Champions League: Real Madrid vs. Atletico Madrid (next week)
- Copa del Rey: Real Madrid vs. Real Sociedad (April 1)
- Real Madrid: 2nd place
- Real Sociedad: 5th place
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