Relive the excitement of Real Madrid’s wild 5-4 triumph over Sociedad, featuring standout performances from Bellingham and Vini Jr. in a match full of drama.
Introduction:
Real Madrid booked their place in the Copa del Rey final after a dramatic 5-4 extra-time victory over Real Sociedad at the Santiago Bernabéu. In a pulsating contest that saw lead changes, stunning goals, and late drama, Antonio Rüdiger’s 115th-minute header finally sealed Madrid’s spot in the final, where they will face either Barcelona or Atlético Madrid on April 26 at La Cartuja Stadium in Seville.
The game had everything—moments of brilliance, defensive mishaps, and relentless attacking football. After an early lead for Sociedad, Real Madrid clawed their way back through Endrick before two own goals from David Alaba saw them trailing 3-1 with ten minutes remaining. However, a stunning four-minute spell saw Jude Bellingham and Aurélien Tchouaméni restore parity before a late Oyarzabal strike forced extra time. In the end, it was Rüdiger who sent the Bernabéu into raptures with his towering header.
Fast Start and Endrick’s Magic
Carlo Ancelotti’s side began with intent, creating two clear chances in the opening ten minutes. Endrick attempted an acrobatic bicycle kick that narrowly missed the target, and moments later, VinÃcius Jr. forced a sharp save from Real Sociedad’s goalkeeper, Ãlex Remiro. See also: Mbappé and Bellingham Inspire Real Madrid’s 3-2 Win
Despite Madrid’s early dominance, Sociedad struck first with their very first attempt. Ander Barrenetxea finished clinically in the 16th minute after latching onto a loose ball inside the box, silencing the Bernabéu. See also: Mamardashvili Heroics & Duro Strike Seal Valencia Win
Vini Jr. and Endrick Combine to Equalize
Madrid responded with relentless pressure, with Bellingham going close before Endrick produced a moment of magic in the 30th minute. Receiving a stunning outside-foot pass from Vini Jr., the young Brazilian forward delicately lifted the ball over Remiro, making it 1-1 and spectacularly announcing himself.
Madrid Denied a Penalty as Sociedad Hold Firm
The second half began with Madrid almost taking the lead as Rodrygo’s corner was nearly bundled in. Then, in a controversial moment, Remiro clattered into Bellingham inside the box while attempting to clear the ball, but referee Alberola Rojas waved away Madrid’s penalty claims. VAR did not intervene, much to the frustration of the home crowd.
Alaba’s Nightmare Own Goals
Just as Madrid seemed to be gaining control, disaster struck in the 72nd minute. Trying to intercept a cross from Jon Magunacelaya, Alaba accidentally diverted the ball past Andriy Lunin for an own goal. See also:Â Real Madrid Held to 1-1 Draw by Al Hilal in CWC Opener
Worse was to come for the Austrian defender in the 80th minute when Oyarzabal’s speculative strike took a wicked deflection off him, wrong-footing Lunin and putting Sociedad 3-1 ahead.
Bellingham and Tchouaméni Turn the Tide
Madrid refused to go down without a fight. Just two minutes later, Vini Jr. again turned provider, beating Hamari Traoré down the wing before delivering a pinpoint cross for Bellingham. The Englishman volleyed home expertly, cutting the deficit to 3-2.
With the Bernabéu roaring them forward, Madrid struck again in the 86th minute. A well-taken corner saw Tchouaméni rise highest, powering a header into the net to make it 3-3.
Oyarzabal’s Late Blow Takes It to Extra Time
Madrid had a chance to complete the turnaround in normal time, but Remiro denied Vini Jr. in a one-on-one situation. However, it was Sociedad who found the net next. A 93rd-minute free-kick saw Oyarzabal bundle the ball home, forcing extra time most dramatically.
Extra Time Brilliance and Rüdiger’s Heroics
The extra-time period saw Madrid in complete control. Kylian Mbappé, who had been relatively quiet, nearly won it in the 105th minute, controlling a brilliant Rodrygo pass with his chest before sending his shot agonizingly wide.
Tempers flared when Sociedad’s Jon Olasagasti committed a reckless challenge on Vini Jr., which many felt warranted a red card, but he was only shown yellow.
Rüdiger Seals Madrid’s Spot in the Final
With penalties looming, Madrid found their winner in the 115th minute. Young talent Arda Güler whipped in a precise corner, and Rüdiger rose above everyone, thumping a header past Remiro to send Madrid to yet another Copa del Rey final.
Madrid’s Never-Say-Die Spirit
Once again, Real Madrid demonstrated their ability to respond to adversity. From 3-1 down in the 80th minute to winning 5-4 in extra time, this was another night of legendary comebacks for the club.
With the Copa del Rey final now set, Madrid have the chance to add yet another domestic title to their collection when they face either Barcelona or Atlético Madrid on April 26.
Sociedad’s Brave Effort Ends in Heartbreak
Real Sociedad put up a brave fight and were minutes away from a famous victory, but they ultimately fell short. They will take positives from their performance, but the manner of their collapse will sting. Their focus now shifts back to La Liga, where they continue to push for European qualification.
