Real Madrid staged a dramatic comeback to overturn a two-goal deficit against Real Sociedad, securing a thrilling 4-4 draw after extra time and a 5-4 aggregate win to reach the Copa del Rey final. Substitute Antonio Rudiger sealed the victory with a decisive header, capping off an unforgettable night at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Real Sociedad struck first in the 16th minute through Ander Barrenetxea, briefly tilting the tie in their favor. However, Real Madrid responded swiftly, with Endrick producing a delightful dinked finish 15 minutes later to level the score. Having won the first leg 1-0, Carlo Ancelotti’s side appeared to be in control, knowing a draw would see them through.
That sense of security was shattered in the second half as Sociedad stunned the home crowd with two quick-fire goals. Pablo Marin and Mikel Oyarzabal both saw their efforts deflect off an unlucky David Alaba, giving the visitors a two-goal advantage by the 80th minute. The Bernabeu was momentarily silenced, but only for two minutes—Jude Bellingham slotted home a first-time finish to reignite Madrid’s hopes, and four minutes later, Aurelien Tchouameni powered in a header from a Rodrygo corner to restore parity.
Just when it seemed Real Madrid had completed their comeback, Alaba’s nightmare evening took another turn. The Austrian failed to clear a corner deep into stoppage time, allowing Oyarzabal to head in Sociedad’s fourth goal and force extra time.
With penalties looming, it was Rudiger who delivered the final twist. Substitute Arda Guler floated a perfect corner into the box, and the German defender rose highest to nod home the crucial equalizer that sent Madrid through on aggregate. The dramatic turnaround kept their Copa del Rey dreams alive, ensuring a place in next month’s final in Seville.
Real Madrid, who have won the competition just once in over a decade, will now face either Barcelona or Atletico Madrid in a highly anticipated final.
