Real Madrid Prepares for Copa del Rey Semifinal After Narrow Win

MADRID, Spain — Real Madrid is already looking ahead after a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Leganés on March 29. Coach Carlo Ancelotti‘s squad now turns its attention to the upcoming Copa del Rey semifinal return leg against Real Sociedad, with the advantage of a crucial goal by Endrick in the first match.

Despite the win, Ancelotti noted the team’s struggles, saying, “We had good control, but we lacked balance, which is why we conceded two goals that we didn’t deserve based on our first-half performance. We could have managed our lead better and suffered too much. It’s common after a break, but we struggled to find our rhythm. We need to suffer together and make sacrifices. There are no easy matches, and we know that. Suffering is part of the game.”

Going into the semifinal, Madrid will be without key players, including Thibaut Courtois, Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, Dani Ceballos, and Ferland Mendy. Courtois suffered discomfort during his national team’s match against Ukraine, prompting concerns about his availability. In his absence, Andriy Lunin is expected to take the helm as goalkeeper.

Real Madrid players are training at their Valdebebas facility, preparing to maintain their advantage from the first leg and aiming for a return to the final at La Cartuja. Imanol Alguacil, coach of Real Sociedad, commented on his team’s readiness after a 2-1 victory over Valladolid, feeling optimistic about knocking out Madrid. “We have to play the match. Regardless of being at the Bernabéu, I believe we can win,” Alguacil stated.

Meanwhile, speculation about the club’s future continues to circulate. Ancelotti focused on the present and immediate challenges, emphasizing the importance of each match. “We are competing in every tournament, and that increases our responsibility. Each game could be critical to pursuing the titles we aim to win. We must do everything possible, starting tomorrow,” he said in a press conference.

Real Madrid’s hierarchy is also dealing with potential player exits, particularly regarding Endrick, Arda Güler, and Gonzalo, who has caught the attention of multiple top-tier clubs. Gonzalo’s impactful performance has been pivotal in Madrid reaching the Copa del Rey semifinals, and the possibility of his departure looms large, with clubs like Real Sociedad, Getafe, and Leganés eager to sign the promising young striker.

In addition, speculation regarding transfer targets intensifies, with Stuttgart midfielder Enzo Millot emerging as a prospective addition to bolster Madrid’s midfield for the future. At just 22 years old, Millot has impressed in the Bundesliga and could be a vital acquisition as the club seeks a natural successor to veteran Toni Kroos.

Overall, Madrid is committed to a strategy of investing in youthful talent while preparing for pivotal moments ahead, including the semifinals of the Copa del Rey, all while remaining focused on achieving success in the current season. The players express a strong belief in their chances of winning three major titles this year, a feat yet to be accomplished in club history.