The Copa del Rey continues this week with Real Madrid hosting Real Sociedad on Tuesday for the second leg of their semifinal tie. Real Madrid holds a 1-0 advantage from the first leg, thanks to a goal by Endrick.
The winner of this match will play against either FC Barcelona or Atletico de Madrid in the final, which is scheduled for April 26 in Seville. Barcelona and Atletico Madrid will play their second leg on Wednesday after an exciting 4-4 draw in the first match.
Real Sociedad has struggled against Real Madrid recently, winning only once in their last ten encounters. Real Madrid has won six of these matches, with three draws. In their last La Liga game, Real Madrid defeated Leganes 3-2, staying close to FC Barcelona in the league standings.
Real Sociedad is currently 10th in La Liga and sees the Copa del Rey as their best opportunity to qualify for European competition next season. However, they will need a significant comeback in Madrid to advance.
Real Madrid will likely start Andriy Lunin in goal for this cup match. Ferland Mendy, Dani Ceballos, Eder Militao, and Dani Carvajal are unavailable due to injuries. Coach Carlo Ancelotti is expected to field a strong lineup, potentially including Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Jr.
Match Details
- Match: Real Madrid vs Real Sociedad
- Competition: Copa del Rey Semifinal, Second Leg
- Date: Tuesday, April 1
- Time: 3:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid, Spain
- Live stream: ESPN+
- Odds: Real Madrid -200; Draw +350; Real Sociedad +500
Previous Meeting
Real Madrid and Real Sociedad last played on February 26 in the first leg of this Copa del Rey semifinal. Earlier this year, Real Madrid also won 2-0 against Real Sociedad in La Liga on January 18, with goals from Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr.
Real Madrid`s Perspective
Carlo Ancelotti mentioned in a press conference that the team is in good shape and motivated to reach another Copa del Rey final. He stated that they value this competition and are aiming to win it again.
Ancelotti also commented on Barcelona`s recent win, acknowledging their good football but highlighting Real Madrid`s different yet equally effective style, which is shaped by their players.
Projected Starting Lineups
Real Madrid: Andriy Lunin, Lucas Vazquez, Raul Asencio, Antonio Rudiger, Francisco Garcia, Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, Rodrygo, Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappe.
Real Sociedad: Alex Remiro, Hamari Traore, Igor Zubeldia, Aritz Elustondo, Aihen Munoz, Martin Zubimendi, Takefusa Kubo, Luka Sucic, Pablo Marin, Ander Barrenetxea, Mikel Oyarzabal.
Player to Watch
Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid: Mbappe has had an impressive start at Real Madrid, scoring 33 goals in 45 games, equaling Cristiano Ronaldo`s debut season record. With months still left in the season, he has the chance to surpass this record. Coach Ancelotti noted that matching Ronaldo`s achievements would make Mbappe a Real Madrid legend.
Key Storyline
Goalkeeper Choice: Ancelotti has indicated that Lunin will continue as the goalkeeper for this Copa del Rey semifinal, as he has throughout the cup games. However, he hinted at a possible change for the final, potentially considering Courtois. Lunin’s performance in this match could influence the decision for the final.
Match Prediction
Real Madrid is favored to win this home game, especially after their first-leg victory. Prediction: Real Madrid 2, Real Sociedad 0.
