Real Madrid proved once again why they are never out of a contest, producing a sensational comeback to defeat Real Sociedad in a thrilling Copa del Rey semi-final. The match was filled with drama and tension that didn’t afford fans a moment to blink.
To begin a run of spellbinding events, Real Sociedad took an early lead, capitalizing on defensive lapses from Madrid. Coming into the game having lost the first leg to Real Madrid, Sociedad needed to collapse the Spanish giants if they truly wanted silverware.
Their aggressive pressing and swift attacking play troubled Carlo Ancelotti’s side, and for much of the first half, it looked like Sociedad was on their way to the final. Real Madrid pulled level with a chipped goal from Endrick in the last 15 minutes of the first half to set up an interesting second 45 minutes.
Sociedad knew they had it all to do in the second half. Picking up where they left off, Real Sociedad hammered at the Madrid defense and it was only a matter of time before they caved. In the 72nd minute, an own goal by Alaba gave Real Sociedad the lead and in the 80th minute, it was 3-1 in favour of Sociedad.
But Real Madrid refused to give up as they have done so many times before. Tchouameni made it 2-3 in the 82nd minute. 4 minutes later, a stunning long-range strike from Bellingham leveled the game, sending the Bernabéu into a frenzy.
At 3-3, you would’ve thought there were no more goals but Sociedad had one more trick up their sleeve. With just a few minutes to end regular time, Iyarzabal scored again to take the match into extra time. Madrid had lapses defensively but the frontline were always ready to pounce at any loose ball. Sociedad held their own for much of the extra period but the inevitable happened.
Like a hot knife through butter, Rudiger slotted the ball into the net at the 115th minute. The Bernabeu once again was thrown into celebration as Real Madrid for the umpteenth time had done the impossible.
Real Madrid’s “never say die” attitude has once again won them another crucial match putting them in contention for another trophy. For now, they await the winner of the semi finals between Atletico and Barcelona to know who they will face in the finals.
