Real Madrid took a significant step toward the Copa del Rey final with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad at the Reale Arena on Wednesday. A well-taken goal by young Brazilian forward Endrick secured the first-leg advantage for Los Blancos, as they successfully navigated a tough challenge in San Sebastian.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side now head into the return fixture at the Santiago Bernabéu on April 1 in a commanding position. The match was a classic cup encounter, defined by moments of quality, disciplined defending, and a standout performance from goalkeeper Andriy Lunin. Despite missing key players like Kylian Mbappé, Fede Valverde, and Thibaut Courtois, Madrid demonstrated their depth and resilience.
With crucial La Liga and Champions League fixtures on the horizon, Ancelotti made several changes to his lineup. Arda Güler, Fran García, and Eduardo Camavinga were all handed starts, but it was Endrick who stole the headlines with a moment of magic in the 19th minute, converting a sublime Jude Bellingham pass with a deft finish.
Endrick’s Moment of Brilliance
Since his arrival, Endrick has been one of Madrid’s most exciting prospects, and the 18-year-old once again proved his worth. With the game still in its early stages, Bellingham produced a beautifully weighted diagonal ball that split the Sociedad defense. Endrick raced onto the pass, took one touch to control, and with his second, expertly guided the ball past goalkeeper Alex Remiro with the outside of his boot.
The strike, his fourth in the Copa del Rey this season, demonstrated the young forward’s composure and technique. He has found the most joy in this competition, where Ancelotti has given him the freedom to express himself. Endrick’s goal gave Madrid an early cushion in a game that was otherwise evenly contested.
Real Sociedad’s Response and Lunin’s Heroics
Real Sociedad, urged on by their passionate home crowd, responded strongly to going behind. They controlled possession for large stretches and applied significant pressure, particularly in the second half. Japanese international Takefusa Kubo and club captain Mikel Oyarzabal were at the heart of La Real’s attacking efforts, constantly probing Madrid’s defense.
However, their best efforts were thwarted by Andriy Lunin, who delivered one of his best performances in a Madrid shirt. The Ukrainian shot-stopper made six crucial saves, denying Sociedad on multiple occasions, including a brilliant double stop in the second half to keep out Oyarzabal and Kubo.
Lunin’s heroics ensured Madrid maintained their narrow lead, with his performance underscoring why he has become Ancelotti’s preferred choice in goal in recent weeks. According to expected goals on target (xGoT) data, Lunin prevented 1.3 goals—highlighting just how crucial his interventions were.
Madrid’s Missed Chances
While Sociedad pushed for an equalizer, Madrid had chances of their own to extend their lead. Vinícius Júnior, wearing the captain’s armband for the night, came close with a powerful low drive, only to be denied by Remiro.
Endrick, hungry for his second goal, struck the crossbar from the edge of the box in the second half. His ability to find space and create opportunities was impressive, but Madrid will feel they could have been more clinical in front of goal.
With a one-goal lead, Madrid remain in control of the tie, but a second goal would have given them more breathing space heading into the return leg at the Bernabéu.
Ceballos’ Injury and Madrid’s Upcoming Challenges
The victory was slightly overshadowed by a concerning injury to Dani Ceballos, who was forced off in tears. The Spanish midfielder, who has struggled with fitness issues this season, suffered what appeared to be a muscular problem. His emotional reaction suggested he could face another spell on the sidelines—a blow for Madrid as they enter a crucial stage of the campaign.
Ancelotti will now turn his attention to upcoming challenges in both La Liga and the Champions League. Madrid face Real Betis on Saturday before an intense last-16 clash with Atlético Madrid in Europe’s premier club competition. The Italian coach has managed squad rotations well, but the fixture congestion will test his squad’s depth.
Tactical Analysis: How Madrid Secured the Win
Ancelotti’s tactical setup was pragmatic yet effective. While he rotated several key players, he maintained a solid defensive structure that withstood Sociedad’s attacking pressure.
1. Compact Midfield Shape – With Camavinga, Güler, and Kroos in midfield, Madrid ensured they were difficult to break down, forcing Sociedad to take shots from distance.
2. Bellingham’s Influence – The Englishman was the creative spark for Madrid, creating six chances, including the assist for Endrick’s goal. His ability to carry the ball forward and link up to play kept Sociedad’s defenders on edge.
3. Counter-Attacking Threat – Madrid allowed Sociedad to dominate possession but looked dangerous in transition, with Endrick and Vinícius stretching ki the opposition’s backline.
4. Lunin’s Commanding Presence– With six saves and sharp reflexes, Lunin was the standout performer defensively. His confidence in goal gave Madrid the stability they needed.
What Next for Madrid?
Real Madrid will be pleased with their performance, but they know the job is far from done. Real Sociedad will arrive at the Bernabéu determined to overturn the deficit, and Madrid will need to be sharp to avoid any surprises.
With four La Liga matches and two Champions League fixtures before the second leg, Ancelotti will have to carefully manage his squad to keep them fresh. If Endrick continues his fine form, he could play a crucial role in Madrid’s push for silverware this season.
Conclusion
Endrick’s composed finish and Lunin’s goalkeeping masterclass ensured Real Madrid took a valuable 1-0 lead from their Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Real Sociedad. While the hosts enjoyed more possession and tested Madrid’s defense, they were ultimately frustrated by Lunin’s brilliance and Madrid’s resilience.
The narrow victory puts Los Blancos in control ahead of the second leg at the Bernabéu, but they will need to be at their best to finish the job. With crucial domestic and European fixtures on the horizon, Madrid’s squad depth and tactical discipline will be tested in the coming weeks.
For now, though, Ancelotti and his team can savor a crucial away win—one that moves them a step closer to another Copa del Rey final.
