Real Sociedad Aims for Upset Against Real Madrid in Semifinal Clash

MADRID, Spain – The Real Sociedad football team is set to face off against Real Madrid this Tuesday in a highly anticipated Copa del Rey semifinal at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. With the match looming, manager Imanol Alguacil has received promising news as star players Mikel Oyarzabal, Orri Óskarsson, and Nayef Aguerd have been cleared to join the squad.

Oyarzabal’s availability comes despite his early exit from training on Monday due to precautionary measures. Alguacil confirmed that although the captain might have been at risk, he is fit to compete. “It was a small injury that wouldn’t worsen, and he could help the team win without any issues,” Alguacil stated.

However, Alguacil will have to contend with several absences heading into the match. Key players including Arsen Zakharyan and Brais Méndez remain sidelined due to injuries, while Becker has not recovered in time to make the squad. Odriozola suffered a setback during training after the Valladolid match, and Pacheco is still two weeks away from being available, according to Alguacil.

The coach, displaying a positive outlook despite the challenges, encouraged the entire squad to travel to Madrid. “With such an important match, the entire team will go. Everyone understands what’s at stake,” he remarked, referring to the excitement surrounding the opportunity to reach the final.

Speaking to the media, Alguacil expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming game, stating, “It’s a big night, and I’ll dream about it. We deserve this moment while recognizing the significant challenge ahead.” He highlighted the importance of being tactically strong, particularly in critical areas of the pitch.

As the team prepares to face a formidable Madrid side, which holds a 1-0 advantage from the first leg, Alguacil acknowledged the challenge of competing against a club of such caliber. “The Madrid team is always the favorite for every title – whether it’s the league, Champions League, or anything else. But we’ll compete,” he noted.

Focusing on the match, Alguacil emphasized the necessity of capitalizing on goal-scoring opportunities. “We’ve been close before in our past encounters; if we perform like those games, we will have a serious chance at advancing,” he added.

Confident yet pragmatic, Alguacil stated he is not concerned about the prospect of extra time, preferring to focus on winning outright. “I haven’t visualized a draw. We aim for victory, and if we win by two goals, we’ll secure our place in the final,” he asserted.

Reflecting on their historical successes, Alguacil remarked, “Having previously defeated them gives us hope. It’s about believing we can achieve another memorable night.” While he acknowledged Madrid’s superior resources and management under Carlo Ancelotti, he is determined to inspire his team. “They require minimal chances to score, and we must be at our best to compete effectively,” he commented.

As the fanbase rallies behind Real Sociedad, the team looks to write another chapter in their storied rivalry with Real Madrid on their quest for silverware.