Antonio Rüdiger was the hero of the night as his extra-time header sealed Real Madrid’s dramatic 5-4 aggregate victory over Real Sociedad, securing a place in the Copa del Rey final.
Madrid, who led 1-0 from the first leg, endured a chaotic night at the Santiago Bernabéu, falling behind twice before eventually emerging victorious.
Match Recap
The visitors struck first through Ander Barrenetxea, leveling the tie on aggregate. Madrid responded as Vinícius Jr assisted Endrick, who produced a sublime finish to restore the lead.
An unfortunate David Alaba own goal put La Real back in contention before Mikel Oyarzabal’s deflected strike turned the tie on its head. Madrid, however, fought back with Jude Bellingham’s classy volley and Aurélien Tchouaméni’s late header, seemingly securing the win.
But Oyarzabal’s stoppage-time equalizer forced extra time, where Rüdiger rose highest to power home the winner from Arda Güler’s corner, sealing Los Blancos’ place in the final.
Player Ratings
- Antonio Rüdiger (8/10) – Towering header to win it for Madrid. A leader at the back.
- Jude Bellingham (8/10) – Scored a stunning goal, battled through extra-time despite cramping.
- Vinícius Jr (8/10) – Constant threat, two assists, and relentless dribbling.
- Endrick (7/10) – Scored a wonderful goal, showed glimpses of brilliance.
- David Alaba (4/10) – A night to forget, own goal and an unlucky deflection for La Real’s third.
- Carlo Ancelotti (6/10) – Tactical rollercoaster, but Madrid survived.
Madrid now shift focus to their final showdown, as they aim to add another domestic trophy to their collection.
