Antonio Rudiger's extra-time header helped Real Madrid defeat Real Sociedad 5-4 on aggregate, securing a spot in the Copa del Rey final. Despite defensive errors and a dramatic late equalizer from Sociedad, Madrid's attacking power, led by Vinicius and Bellingham, saw them through to the final.
Real Madrid advanced to the Copa del Rey final after a dramatic 5-4 aggregate win over Real Sociedad, with Antonio Rudiger’s extra-time header sealing the victory. Despite a shaky performance, including a late equalizer from Sociedad, Madrid’s resilience proved decisive.
Leading 1-0 from the first leg, Madrid struggled to find their rhythm, and Sociedad quickly capitalized with Ander Barrenetxea's 16th-minute goal, leveling the tie. However, Madrid responded as Vinicius Jr. assisted Endrick’s well-taken goal to put Madrid ahead. But Sociedad wasn’t done, and David Alaba’s own goal and another deflection from Mikel Oyarzabal put them back on top.
With the aggregate score tied at 3-3, Jude Bellingham’s brilliant side-footed volley appeared to give Madrid the lead, but Sociedad countered with another Oyarzabal header, sending the match into extra-time. After a tense period, Rudiger rose above the defenders to head in a corner and send Madrid to the final.
While Andriy Lunin struggled in goal and some defensive errors plagued the team, Madrid's attacking stars like Vinicius and Bellingham kept the momentum going. Rudiger's decisive moment earned him the praise of fans and teammates alike. Coach Carlo Ancelotti’s team had to dig deep in this epic encounter, but their place in the final keeps their treble hopes alive as they head into the next phase of the competition.
