By rikififi90 
The night of February 26, 2025, promises to deliver a thrilling showdown in the Copa del Rey semifinals. In San Sebastián, the Reale Arena hosts the first leg between Real Sociedad and Real Madrid, kicking off at 5:30 PM (Brasilia time, 9:30 PM CET). Thousands of fans will pack the stands of the stadium, which holds over 38,000 people, all hoping for a crucial edge ahead of the return leg. The match will be broadcast live on ESPN and the Disney+ platform for viewers in Brazil, while in Spain, it will air through official tournament channels. Real Madrid arrives with the weight of its legacy and a formidable attack, though missing Kylian Mbappé due to physical issues. Meanwhile, Real Sociedad banks on home support and a strong record at the Reale Arena to challenge the favored visitors.
Over 38,000 tickets sold out days in advance, ensuring a deafening atmosphere at the Reale Arena. Local fans are buzzing with anticipation for a standout performance.
For Real Madrid, the challenge extends beyond the pitch. Facing Real Sociedad on their turf means overcoming a venue that has historically posed problems for big clubs.
Intense Preparations Shape the Teams
This clash pits two teams at different stages of their seasons. Real Madrid, coached by Carlo Ancelotti, rolls into San Sebastián with a robust campaign, topping LaLiga and boasting a lethal attack. Despite Mbappé’s absence, stars like Vinícius Júnior, with 15 goals this season, and Rodrygo, with 12, keep the offensive threat alive. Real Sociedad, led by Imanol Alguacil, has had an up-and-down run in the Spanish league but shines in the Copa del Rey with convincing performances. Their speed and creativity, driven by Takefusa Kubo and Mikel Oyarzabal, will be vital to exploit gaps in the opposition.
Training sessions were rigorous all week. The Merengues honed quick transitions and ball possession, while the hosts rehearsed counterattacking moves to catch the visitors off guard.
Mbappé’s absence forces Ancelotti to tweak his approach, potentially giving young talents like Endrick a chance to shine in this pivotal matchup.
Historic Rivalry Fuels the Fire
Matches between Real Sociedad and Real Madrid are always charged with intensity. Across 178 official encounters, Madrid holds a commanding 99 wins to Sociedad’s 37, with 42 draws. Their most recent clash, at the Santiago Bernabéu, ended in a 2-0 victory for Real Madrid, with goals from Vinícius Júnior and Mbappé. Yet, the Reale Arena has proven a tough battleground for the visitors, most notably in 2020 when Real Sociedad stunned Madrid with a 4-3 win at the Bernabéu, knocking them out of the tournament.
Key Moments in Copa del Rey History
- Real Sociedad’s historic 4-3 upset over Real Madrid in 2020.
- Madrid’s penalty shootout triumph in San Sebastián in 2006.
- Sociedad’s semifinal victory in 1987, paving the way to the title.
Stats That Ignite the Clash
- Real Madrid has won 4 of the last 5 meetings with Real Sociedad.
- Sociedad hasn’t beaten Madrid at home since the 2021/22 season.
- Average of 2.6 goals per game in the last 10 matchups.
Lineups and Tactical Tweaks in Focus
Without Mbappé, Real Madrid is likely to field Andriy Lunin in goal, with Federico Valverde, Raúl Asencio, Antonio Rüdiger, and Fran García in defense, plus Dani Ceballos, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Jude Bellingham in midfield. Up top, Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Endrick are expected to lead the attack. Real Sociedad will counter with Álex Remiro in goal, backed by Hamari Traoré, Igor Zubeldia, Jon Pacheco, and Javi Galán in defense, with Brais Méndez, Martín Zubimendi, and Luka Sucic in midfield. Takefusa Kubo, Mikel Oyarzabal, and Ander Barrenetxea will form the forward line.
Forecasted temperatures of 12°C with light rain could weigh down the pitch, impacting the game’s tempo.
Home Advantage as Sociedad’s Edge
Boasting over 60% success rate at home against top teams in recent years, Real Sociedad sees the Reale Arena as a major asset. In their last 10 home games against elite clubs, they’ve won 6, drawn 2, and lost just 2, bolstering their confidence heading into this showdown.
Quirks Surrounding the Duel
Takefusa Kubo faces his former club for the third time since leaving Real Madrid, where he developed in the youth ranks. The Japanese star has scored against the Merengues before, adding spice to the matchup. Back in 1987, Real Sociedad ousted Madrid in the Copa del Rey semifinals, a milestone still cherished by fans. The referee, Juan Martínez Munuera, known for decisive calls in high-stakes games, will oversee the action.
Light rain in San Sebastián could complicate play, favoring a more physical approach.
In 2006, Real Madrid advanced on penalties after a dramatic draw at the Reale Arena, underscoring how fine margins settle these contests.
Quick Recap of Key Points
- Madrid’s Attack: 58 goals in 25 games, averaging 2.32 per match.
- Sociedad’s Defense: 15 goals in 5 Copa del Rey games, unbeaten at home in 8.
- Standout Players: Vinícius Júnior (15 goals) and Mikel Oyarzabal (11 goals) in the spotlight.
Copa del Rey Timeline
Their tournament history is packed with twists. In 2020, Real Sociedad shocked the football world with a 4-3 win at the Bernabéu. In 2006, penalties favored Madrid in San Sebastián. In 1987, the Basques triumphed in the semifinals en route to the trophy.
The rivalry heated up in 1993, with Sociedad winning at home but falling in the return leg. In 2014, Madrid cruised through the quarterfinals.
Stats That Shape the Game
Real Madrid boasts a 78% win rate this season, with 58 goals scored and 18 conceded in 25 matches. Real Sociedad has netted 15 goals in 5 Copa del Rey games, though their defense has allowed 22 across all competitions. Madrid dominates possession in 65% of their matches, while Sociedad favors a vertical style with rapid counterattacks.
Vinícius Júnior tops Madrid’s scoring charts with 15 goals, followed by Rodrygo (12) and Bellingham (10). For Sociedad, Oyarzabal has 11, Kubo 9, and Barrenetxea 7.
Based on recent clashes, the game could see an average of 2.6 goals, hinting at an action-packed night.
What to Expect from the Matchup
Mbappé’s absence might level the playing field, giving Sociedad a shot at capitalizing on Madrid’s adjustments. Still, Real Madrid’s star-studded squad keeps them in the driver’s seat. The outcome will set the tone for the second leg at the Bernabéu.
Tactical Battle Between Coaches
Ancelotti will lean on Tchouaméni, Bellingham, and Ceballos to control the midfield and stifle Sociedad’s creativity. Alguacil plans to unleash Barrenetxea and Kubo’s speed on the wings to breach Madrid’s sturdy backline, which has conceded just 18 goals.
Semifinal Track Record
In their last 5 Copa del Rey semifinals, Real Madrid advanced 4 times. Real Sociedad has reached this stage 3 times in the past decade, winning once, highlighting Madrid’s edge in crunch moments.
Reale Arena as a Cauldron
With a full house and fans turning the stadium into a fortress, the pressure on Real Madrid will be immense. Over the years, the support of over 38,000 has fueled Sociedad in knockout ties, like their 2020 triumph.
Young Stars in the Spotlight
Jude Bellingham, with 10 goals, and Takefusa Kubo, with 9, embody the future of Spanish football and could tip the scales. Bellingham brings versatility to Madrid’s midfield, while Kubo’s pace tests his former team.
Season Implications
The winner will be one step from the Copa del Rey final, slated for April. For Madrid, it’s another chance to add to their trophy haul. Sociedad dreams of repeating their 2020 feat, ending a 33-year drought.
The night of February 26, 2025, promises to deliver a thrilling showdown in the Copa del Rey semifinals. In San Sebastián, the Reale Arena hosts the first leg between Real Sociedad and Real Madrid, kicking off at 5:30 PM (Brasilia time, 9:30 PM CET). Thousands of fans will pack the stands of the stadium, which holds over 38,000 people, all hoping for a crucial edge ahead of the return leg. The match will be broadcast live on ESPN and the Disney+ platform for viewers in Brazil, while in Spain, it will air through official tournament channels. Real Madrid arrives with the weight of its legacy and a formidable attack, though missing Kylian Mbappé due to physical issues. Meanwhile, Real Sociedad banks on home support and a strong record at the Reale Arena to challenge the favored visitors.
Over 38,000 tickets sold out days in advance, ensuring a deafening atmosphere at the Reale Arena. Local fans are buzzing with anticipation for a standout performance.
For Real Madrid, the challenge extends beyond the pitch. Facing Real Sociedad on their turf means overcoming a venue that has historically posed problems for big clubs.
Intense Preparations Shape the Teams
This clash pits two teams at different stages of their seasons. Real Madrid, coached by Carlo Ancelotti, rolls into San Sebastián with a robust campaign, topping LaLiga and boasting a lethal attack. Despite Mbappé’s absence, stars like Vinícius Júnior, with 15 goals this season, and Rodrygo, with 12, keep the offensive threat alive. Real Sociedad, led by Imanol Alguacil, has had an up-and-down run in the Spanish league but shines in the Copa del Rey with convincing performances. Their speed and creativity, driven by Takefusa Kubo and Mikel Oyarzabal, will be vital to exploit gaps in the opposition.
Training sessions were rigorous all week. The Merengues honed quick transitions and ball possession, while the hosts rehearsed counterattacking moves to catch the visitors off guard.
Mbappé’s absence forces Ancelotti to tweak his approach, potentially giving young talents like Endrick a chance to shine in this pivotal matchup.
Historic Rivalry Fuels the Fire
Matches between Real Sociedad and Real Madrid are always charged with intensity. Across 178 official encounters, Madrid holds a commanding 99 wins to Sociedad’s 37, with 42 draws. Their most recent clash, at the Santiago Bernabéu, ended in a 2-0 victory for Real Madrid, with goals from Vinícius Júnior and Mbappé. Yet, the Reale Arena has proven a tough battleground for the visitors, most notably in 2020 when Real Sociedad stunned Madrid with a 4-3 win at the Bernabéu, knocking them out of the tournament.
Key Moments in Copa del Rey History
- Real Sociedad’s historic 4-3 upset over Real Madrid in 2020.
- Madrid’s penalty shootout triumph in San Sebastián in 2006.
- Sociedad’s semifinal victory in 1987, paving the way to the title.
Stats That Ignite the Clash
- Real Madrid has won 4 of the last 5 meetings with Real Sociedad.
- Sociedad hasn’t beaten Madrid at home since the 2021/22 season.
- Average of 2.6 goals per game in the last 10 matchups.
Lineups and Tactical Tweaks in Focus
Without Mbappé, Real Madrid is likely to field Andriy Lunin in goal, with Federico Valverde, Raúl Asencio, Antonio Rüdiger, and Fran García in defense, plus Dani Ceballos, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Jude Bellingham in midfield. Up top, Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Endrick are expected to lead the attack. Real Sociedad will counter with Álex Remiro in goal, backed by Hamari Traoré, Igor Zubeldia, Jon Pacheco, and Javi Galán in defense, with Brais Méndez, Martín Zubimendi, and Luka Sucic in midfield. Takefusa Kubo, Mikel Oyarzabal, and Ander Barrenetxea will form the forward line.
Forecasted temperatures of 12°C with light rain could weigh down the pitch, impacting the game’s tempo.
Home Advantage as Sociedad’s Edge
Boasting over 60% success rate at home against top teams in recent years, Real Sociedad sees the Reale Arena as a major asset. In their last 10 home games against elite clubs, they’ve won 6, drawn 2, and lost just 2, bolstering their confidence heading into this showdown.
Quirks Surrounding the Duel
Takefusa Kubo faces his former club for the third time since leaving Real Madrid, where he developed in the youth ranks. The Japanese star has scored against the Merengues before, adding spice to the matchup. Back in 1987, Real Sociedad ousted Madrid in the Copa del Rey semifinals, a milestone still cherished by fans. The referee, Juan Martínez Munuera, known for decisive calls in high-stakes games, will oversee the action.
Light rain in San Sebastián could complicate play, favoring a more physical approach.
In 2006, Real Madrid advanced on penalties after a dramatic draw at the Reale Arena, underscoring how fine margins settle these contests.
Quick Recap of Key Points
- Madrid’s Attack: 58 goals in 25 games, averaging 2.32 per match.
- Sociedad’s Defense: 15 goals in 5 Copa del Rey games, unbeaten at home in 8.
- Standout Players: Vinícius Júnior (15 goals) and Mikel Oyarzabal (11 goals) in the spotlight.
Copa del Rey Timeline
Their tournament history is packed with twists. In 2020, Real Sociedad shocked the football world with a 4-3 win at the Bernabéu. In 2006, penalties favored Madrid in San Sebastián. In 1987, the Basques triumphed in the semifinals en route to the trophy.
The rivalry heated up in 1993, with Sociedad winning at home but falling in the return leg. In 2014, Madrid cruised through the quarterfinals.
Stats That Shape the Game
Real Madrid boasts a 78% win rate this season, with 58 goals scored and 18 conceded in 25 matches. Real Sociedad has netted 15 goals in 5 Copa del Rey games, though their defense has allowed 22 across all competitions. Madrid dominates possession in 65% of their matches, while Sociedad favors a vertical style with rapid counterattacks.
Vinícius Júnior tops Madrid’s scoring charts with 15 goals, followed by Rodrygo (12) and Bellingham (10). For Sociedad, Oyarzabal has 11, Kubo 9, and Barrenetxea 7.
Based on recent clashes, the game could see an average of 2.6 goals, hinting at an action-packed night.
What to Expect from the Matchup
Mbappé’s absence might level the playing field, giving Sociedad a shot at capitalizing on Madrid’s adjustments. Still, Real Madrid’s star-studded squad keeps them in the driver’s seat. The outcome will set the tone for the second leg at the Bernabéu.
Tactical Battle Between Coaches
Ancelotti will lean on Tchouaméni, Bellingham, and Ceballos to control the midfield and stifle Sociedad’s creativity. Alguacil plans to unleash Barrenetxea and Kubo’s speed on the wings to breach Madrid’s sturdy backline, which has conceded just 18 goals.
Semifinal Track Record
In their last 5 Copa del Rey semifinals, Real Madrid advanced 4 times. Real Sociedad has reached this stage 3 times in the past decade, winning once, highlighting Madrid’s edge in crunch moments.
Reale Arena as a Cauldron
With a full house and fans turning the stadium into a fortress, the pressure on Real Madrid will be immense. Over the years, the support of over 38,000 has fueled Sociedad in knockout ties, like their 2020 triumph.
Young Stars in the Spotlight
Jude Bellingham, with 10 goals, and Takefusa Kubo, with 9, embody the future of Spanish football and could tip the scales. Bellingham brings versatility to Madrid’s midfield, while Kubo’s pace tests his former team.
Season Implications
The winner will be one step from the Copa del Rey final, slated for April. For Madrid, it’s another chance to add to their trophy haul. Sociedad dreams of repeating their 2020 feat, ending a 33-year drought.
Veja Também:
Desentendimento entre Diego e Daniele Hypólito no BBB 25 destaca os desafios de parcerias familiares em confinamento
Caixa Tem amplia crédito com valores de até R$ 3.000 e juros reduzidos para microempreendedores e pessoas físicas
vítimas, memória e busca por justiça permanecem em destaque
Onde assistir ao vivo Nova Iguaçu x Boavista pelo Cariocão 2025
confira o novo calendário de pagamento e valores dos benefícios
Semelhança impressionante entre Rafael Vitti e João Vitti surpreende fãs e gera comparações