A Stunning Goal by Endrick Puts Real Madrid on the Verge of the Copa del Rey Final
As expected, Carlo Ancelotti made several rotations in his lineup for the match at Anoeta. Güler and Endrick started from the beginning, Asencio was deployed at full-back, while Vinicius and Bellingham took charge of the attacking duties.
The game started at a high tempo, with Real Sociedad pressing aggressively. However, Ancelotti’s side did not back down; they handled the pressure with composure, circulating the ball precisely to wear down their opponents both physically and mentally, while avoiding costly turnovers.
As the match progressed, Madrid gradually overcame the opposition’s press and, at the first real opportunity, struck with a spectacular goal.
Endrick’s Wonder Goal
Bellingham delivered a masterful pass behind the defense, setting up Endrick in stride. The young Brazilian controlled the ball brilliantly before executing a sublime finish with the outside of his left foot—pure genius. Ancelotti celebrated enthusiastically, as his bold decision to start Endrick had paid off.
From that moment, the first half saw little action. Real Sociedad struggled to create dangerous chances, with Barrenetxea appearing to be their only real threat, testing Asencio, who was playing out of position. The match was briefly halted when offensive chants were directed at the young Madrid defender, prompting referee Sánchez Martínez to enforce anti-discrimination protocols. The game resumed after a brief stadium announcement, with Madrid leading 0-1 at halftime.
Endrick Hits the Crossbar
The second half followed a similar pattern. Real Sociedad looked to dominate possession, but Madrid remained comfortable without the ball. Endrick nearly doubled the lead with another spectacular piece of skill, but his powerful shot crashed off the crossbar.
Despite pushing forward, Real Sociedad failed to break through Madrid’s defense. Lunin was solid in goal, confidently dealing with aerial threats. At the other end, Bellingham came close to making it 0-2, only for Remiro to pull off an excellent save.
Ancelotti made adjustments in the closing stages, reinforcing the left flank by introducing Mendy behind Fran García. However, the match ended on a slightly sour note, as Dani Ceballos limped off with a thigh injury. His availability for upcoming matches against Betis and Atlético Madrid remains uncertain.
The 0-1 victory puts Real Madrid within touching distance of yet another Copa del Rey final.
Match Summary
Real Sociedad 0
- Starting XI: Remiro; Aramburu, Zubeldia, Aguerd, Aihen; Kubo, Brais Méndez, Zubimendi, Sucic (Marín 64’), Barrenetxea (Becker 64’); Oyarzabal
Real Madrid 1
- Starting XI: Lunin; Asencio (Lucas 46’), Tchouaméni, Rüdiger, Fran García; Camavinga (Mendy 87’), Ceballos, Bellingham; Arda Güler (Brahim 83’), Vinicius (Rodrygo 83’), Endrick (Alaba 70’)
- Goal: 0-1 Endrick (18’)
Referee: Sánchez Martínez
- Bookings: Asencio, Lucas
Venue: Anoeta Stadium
