Real Madrid Faces Real Sociedad in Copa del Rey Semifinal First Leg

San Sebastián, Spain – Real Madrid aims for a strong start in the Copa del Rey semifinals as they visit Real Sociedad at the Reale Arena for the first leg of their two-legged tie on February 26 at 9:30 p.m. CET. Both teams seek to secure a favorable outcome before their return match at Santiago Bernabéu on April 1.

Madrid enters the matchup following a series of impressive performances, having defeated Leganés (2-3), Celta (5-2), and Deportiva Minera (0-5) in prior rounds. The team’s offensive capabilities have shone, averaging over four goals per game this tournament. They also boast a recent victory over Sociedad at Reale Arena from earlier this season, where Vini Jr. and Kylian Mbappé scored for a 2-0 win.

“It’s a Copa del Rey semifinal and it’s a big game for both sides. It’s going to be a hard-fought, even, and entertaining game,” said Madrid’s head coach Carlo Ancelotti.

Conversely, Real Sociedad has emerged from prior rounds without much trouble, eliminating Osasuna, Rayo Vallecano, Ponferradina, Conquense, and Jove Español. Esteemed for their solid home performance, the Basque side has registered five consecutive wins in all competitions, with Barrenetxea and Brais Méndez leading their scoring efforts in the cup with three goals each.

Ancelotti, mindful of his squad’s demanding schedule, is expected to rotate players for the match. Despite the rotations, the Copa del Rey holds significant value for the club, with their last title coming over ten years ago. Notably absent from training on Tuesday was Mbappé, who reportedly underwent minor dental surgery to address a tooth issue.

“Mbappé is traveling,” Ancelotti confirmed. “He had a problem with a tooth and couldn’t train. Everyone who travels has a chance of playing the game.” However, it remains unclear whether he will start against Sociedad.

If Mbappé does not feature from the beginning, Ancelotti may turn to the promising young talent Endrick, who has demonstrated potential this season, particularly in Madrid’s victories against Celta Vigo and Leganés.

As Real Madrid strives for a second Spanish Cup title in three seasons, they face stiff competition from Barcelona and Atlético Madrid, also in contention for honors this season. A win against Sociedad would position them favorably for another trip to the final.

Real Sociedad, meanwhile, is determined to reclaim the Copa del Rey title they last won in the 2019-2020 season and will aim to leverage home advantage.

The predicted lineups for both teams indicate a tactical battle ahead, as Madrid opts for consistency in goal with Andriy Lunin and a potentially revitalized squad including Jude Bellingham, who returns after suspension.

As the teams prepare to clash, fans eagerly await kickoff, with the match broadcast available on RTVE.