In a thrilling Copa del Rey semifinal at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Real Madrid and Real Sociedad played to a 4-4 draw, with Madrid advancing 5-4 on aggregate. The match featured dramatic shifts, including late goals and an extra-time winner.
Early Exchanges and First-Half Highlights
Real Sociedad struck first in the 16th minute when Ander Barrenetxea capitalized on a defensive lapse to give the visitors the lead. However, Real Madrid responded promptly; in the 30th minute, Vinícius Júnior threaded a precise pass to Brazilian forward Endrick, who delicately chipped the ball over goalkeeper Álex Remiro, leveling the score at 1-1.
Second-Half Turnaround
The second half saw a series of pivotal events. In the 72nd minute, a misfortune for Madrid as defender David Alaba inadvertently redirected the ball into his own net, handing Real Sociedad a 2-1 advantage. Eight minutes later, Mikel Oyarzabal extended Sociedad’s lead, making it 3-1 and shifting the aggregate score in their favor.
Facing elimination, Real Madrid intensified their efforts. In the 82nd minute, Jude Bellingham received a precise cross from Vinícius Júnior, volleying it into the net to reduce the deficit. Four minutes later, Aurélien Tchouaméni rose above defenders to head in the equalizer, restoring parity at 3-3 and on aggregate.
Late Drama and Extra Time
Just as it seemed the match would conclude with a draw, Oyarzabal struck again in the 93rd minute, giving Real Sociedad a 4-3 lead and a potential aggregate victory. However, Madrid’s resilience shone through; in the 115th minute, Antonio Rüdiger met Arda Güler’s corner with a decisive header, leveling the game at 4-4 and securing Madrid’s progression to the final.
What’s Next
Real Madrid’s victory sets up a Copa del Rey final against either FC Barcelona or Atlético Madrid, who are set to determine the other finalist in their upcoming semifinal clash. The final is scheduled for April 26, 2025, at La Cartuja Stadium in Seville, where Madrid will aim to add another prestigious trophy to their collection.
