Real Madrid Edges Real Sociedad in Dramatic Copa del Rey Semifinal

MADRID, Spain — Real Madrid triumphed over Real Sociedad in a thrilling Copa del Rey semifinal on April 1, 2025, winning 5-4 on aggregate after a nail-biting 120 minutes that ended 4-4. The match showcased eight goals and intense action that kept fans at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium on the edge of their seats.

The Merengues advanced to the final and will face either Barcelona or Atlético de Madrid, who are competing in the other semifinal. Real Madrid had entered the second leg with a 1-0 aggregate lead, making the stakes higher for both teams.

The match began with Real Sociedad striking first at the 15th minute, as Ander Barrenetxea took advantage of a defensive lapse, firing a shot that slipped through goalkeeper Andrii Lunin’s legs. This goal momentarily tilted the aggregate score in Sociedad’s favor.

However, Real Madrid quickly responded. Endrick scored in the 29th minute, leveling the match at 1-1, with a perfectly placed left-footed shot following a through ball from Vinícius Júnior. The dynamic play from both teams set the tone for a back-and-forth battle.

As the first half ended at 1-1, the aggregate score remained 1-1. The intensity escalated in the second half, with Real Madrid pushing for an advantage. Mikel Oyarzabal found the net for Sociedad to lift them to a 2-1 lead before Jude Bellingham and Aurélien Tchouaméni scored for Madrid, making it 3-3 mid-second half. Notably, David Alaba‘s fifth own goal gave Sociedad a momentary edge, leading to a 4-3 aggregate score.

With only minutes left in regular time, Tchouaméni equalized, forcing extra time. The crowd at the Bernabéu erupted in anticipation as both teams battled through fatigue.

During the first half of extra time, both teams struggled for dominance, but it was Antonio Rüdiger’s header in the 114th minute that reignited Madrid’s hopes with the aggregate score even again at 4-4.

The second half of extra time saw each side fight hard but failing to secure a winning goal, sending the match to a penalty shootout. Real Madrid’s experience and composure saw them advance to the final, successfully converting their penalties.

“It was an incredible match,” said Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti. “Both teams played exceptional football, but our determination pushed us through to the final.”

The match concluded Madrid’s run to the final as they aim for their 21st Copa del Rey trophy. “We played with heart and resolve,” Ancelotti added, emphasizing the team’s focus on the upcoming final.

Real Madrid’s next challenge will be against the winner of the Barcelona versus Atlético de Madrid semifinal, creating an exciting lead-up to the upcoming conclusion of the Copa del Rey.