Endrick’s Strike Gives Real Madrid Slim Advantage Over Real Sociedad in Copa Del Rey Semi-Final
Real Madrid secured a crucial 1-0 away victory against Real Sociedad in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final, with Endrick’s first-half goal proving decisive.1 Despite resting key players, Carlo Ancelotti’s side demonstrated their clinical edge on the counter-attack, leaving Real Sociedad with a challenging task ahead of the second leg at the Bernabu.2
Real Sociedad started brightly, with Takefusa Kubo leading the charge against his former club. He tested Andriy Lunin early on, forcing a save at the near post. However, their early dominance failed to yield a goal, and Real Madrid capitalized on a swift counter-attack. Jude Bellingham’s pinpoint long ball found Endrick, who expertly controlled the ball and fired a precise shot past lex Remiro.3
Real Sociedad attempted to respond, with Lunin making crucial saves from Brais Mndez and Mikel Oyarzabal. Real Madrid, spearheaded by Bellingham, remained a constant threat on the break. Vincius Jnior was denied by a brilliant save from Remiro, and Ander Barrenetxea forced Lunin into another excellent stop before halftime. The first half was also interrupted by the referee due to offensive chants from the crowd.
The second half saw chances at both ends. Oyarzabal’s close-range header was smothered by Lunin, and Endrick struck the crossbar with a powerful effort.4 Lucas Vzquez also came close for Real Madrid, firing over the bar. However, Real Sociedad struggled to create meaningful opportunities, and the atmosphere at the Reale Arena became increasingly subdued.
Remiro made a crucial reflex save to deny Bellingham a late goal, keeping the deficit at one. Real Sociedad’s lack of attacking impetus in the second half leaves them with a significant challenge in the second leg at the Bernabu. Real Madrid, meanwhile, extended their unbeaten run to seven matches across all competitions, maintaining their pursuit of a 21st Copa del Rey title.
The victory gives Real Madrid a slender advantage, but Real Sociedad will be determined to overturn the deficit in the second leg. The match highlighted Real Madrid’s clinical counter-attacking ability and Real Sociedad’s struggles to break down a resolute defense.
