Real Madrid Edges Real Sociedad in Copa del Rey Semifinal First Leg
Real Madrid secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semifinal clash on February 26, 2025, at Reale Arena in San Sebastián. The match was decided by a first-half goal from Brazilian forward Endrick, who slotted home a left-footed shot from the center of the box, assisted by Jude Bellingham. The win gives Real Madrid a slight advantage heading into the second leg.
The game was not without controversy. Just before halftime, the match was briefly paused due to offensive chants directed at Real Madrid defender Raúl Asencio by home fans. The chants, which included calls for Asencio to “die,” were reported to the referee by Vinícius Júnior, leading to the stoppage. Asencio, who is under investigation by a Spanish court for allegedly sharing a sexually explicit video involving a minor, was visibly affected and was substituted at halftime. Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti explained the decision, stating that Asencio was emotionally impacted and had already received a yellow card.
Real Sociedad, currently ninth in LaLiga, struggled to break down Real Madrid’s defense despite creating several chances. Mikel Oyarzabal and Takefusa Kubo came close to equalizing, but their efforts were thwarted by Real Madrid goalkeeper Andrii Lunin. The hosts will now face an uphill battle in the second leg as they aim to overturn the deficit.
Real Madrid, second in LaLiga behind Barcelona on goal difference, will look to build on this result as they prepare for their next league fixture against Real Betis. Meanwhile, Real Sociedad will face league leaders Barcelona in their upcoming match.
Notably, Real Madrid was without star forward Kylian Mbappé, who missed the game due to a dental procedure. The Frenchman, who has been in stellar form this season, was rested to ensure a full recovery. His absence placed additional responsibility on Vinícius Júnior and Endrick, who delivered the decisive goal.
The second leg of the semifinal will determine which team advances to the Copa del Rey final, with Real Madrid holding a slight edge after this hard-fought victory.
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