Real Madrid Reach Copa Del Rey Final After Dramatic Extra-Time Winner.
Real Madrid kept their Treble hopes alive in spectacular fashion as Antonio Rüdiger headed home a dramatic extra-time winner against Real Sociedad, securing a place in the Copa del Rey final.
The German defender, introduced as a substitute, rose highest to meet Arda Güler’s 115th-minute corner, flicking a header past goalkeeper Alex Remiro to send the Santiago Bernabéu into raptures.
A Thriller at the Bernabéu
With Sociedad holding a 1-0 lead from the first leg, the visitors struck first through Ander Barrenetxea in the 16th minute. However, Brazilian teenager Endrick equalised on the night with a delicate chip in the 30th minute, restoring Madrid’s aggregate advantage.
A chaotic second half saw five goals scored in just 21 minutes. David Alaba’s unfortunate own goal in the 72nd minute put Sociedad ahead again, before Mikel Oyarzabal made it 3-1 on the night, giving the visitors a 3-2 lead on aggregate.
Madrid quickly responded, with Jude Bellingham producing a superb volley to level the tie. Aurelien Tchouaméni then thought he had won it for Carlo Ancelotti’s side in the 86th minute, as Remiro failed to deal with his header.
However, Sociedad refused to back down, and Oyarzabal powered in another header in stoppage time to force extra time.
Rüdiger Seals Madrid’s Spot in the Final
With the game on a knife-edge, it was Rüdiger who provided the decisive moment, sealing a 5-4 aggregate victory and keeping Madrid’s dreams of a historic Treble alive.
Los Blancos are still in contention for three major trophies. They trail La Liga leaders Barcelona by just three points, face Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-finals, and are now on course to win a record-extending 21st Copa del Rey title.
Barcelona travel to Atlético Madrid on Wednesday to decide who will face Madrid in the final, with their semi-final finely poised after a thrilling 4-4 first-leg draw.
