Real Madrid claimed a narrow 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final, with Endrick’s clinical finish proving decisive.
The Brazilian youngster’s strike ended Sociedad’s impressive five-match home winning streak and put Madrid in control ahead of the second leg.
Despite key absences—including Thibaut Courtois, Federico Valverde, and Kylian Mbappé—Carlo Ancelotti’s men absorbed early pressure from Sociedad. Former Madrid player Takefusa Kubo tested Andriy Lunin with a fierce shot, but the Ukrainian goalkeeper was up to the task.
Madrid then capitalized in classic counter-attacking fashion. Jude Bellingham delivered a precise long pass to Endrick, who controlled it masterfully before slotting a low, outside-of-the-boot shot past Álex Remiro.
Imanol Alguacil’s side responded with a series of attacks, but Lunin stood firm, denying efforts from Brais Méndez and Mikel Oyarzabal.
At the other end, Real Madrid nearly doubled their lead when Bellingham set up Vinícius Júnior, but Remiro produced an excellent save to keep Sociedad in the game.
The first half ended with tensions rising, as the referee briefly halted play due to offensive crowd chants. Sociedad nearly found an equalizer through Ander Barrenetxea, but once again, Lunin was unbeatable.
The second half was a battle of missed chances, with Oyarzabal’s header stopped by Lunin and Endrick striking the crossbar. Lucas Vázquez also went close, but Sociedad struggled to break Madrid’s defensive structure.
As full-time approached, Remiro made another key save to deny Bellingham’s deflected shot, ensuring Sociedad remained within reach. However, they now face an uphill battle at the Santiago Bernabéu, where Madrid will look to secure their place in the final.
Los Blancos have now extended their unbeaten run to seven matches in all competitions as they chase a 21st Copa del Rey title.
