The highly anticipated Copa del Rey 2024-25 semi-final second leg between Real Madrid and Real Sociedad is set to captivate football fans worldwide. With Real Madrid holding a narrow 1-0 advantage from the first leg, the Santiago Bernabéu will be the stage for this thrilling encounter.
Real Madrid, under the astute management of Carlo Ancelotti, aims to secure their place in the finals. The team is expected to showcase a blend of experience and youthful exuberance, with key players returning to the lineup after being rested in their recent league match.

Real Sociedad, on the other hand, is determined to overturn the deficit and make their mark in the competition. The Basque side, known for their resilience, will rely on their attacking prowess to challenge the hosts and keep their Copa del Rey dreams alive.
Real Madrid Squad News and Injury Report
Real Madrid's squad for the clash against Real Sociedad is a mix of seasoned campaigners and emerging talents. The absence of Thibaut Courtois due to injury means Andriy Lunin is expected to continue as the first-choice goalkeeper. The defensive lineup will likely see David Alaba and Fran García in action, with Lucas Vázquez and Asencio providing support.
In midfield, the dynamic duo of Luka Modrić and Aurélien Tchouaméni is set to orchestrate play, while Federico Valverde and Vinicius Jr. are anticipated to return to the starting XI. The forward line, featuring the likes of Rodrygo and Endrick, will aim to capitalize on any defensive lapses by Real Sociedad.
Injury Concerns:
| Player | Status |
| Thibaut Courtois | Out due to injury |
| Eder Militao | Out for the season |
| Dani Carvajal | Out for the season |
| Dani Ceballos | Expected to return soon |
| Ferland Mendy | Expected to return soon |
Real Sociedad Squad News and Injury Report
Real Sociedad enters the match with a few injury concerns but remains optimistic about their chances. Mikel Oyarzabal, the team's leading goalscorer, will spearhead the attack alongside Takefusa Kubo and Ander Barrenetxea. The midfield will be anchored by Martin Zubimendi, who has been attracting interest from top clubs.
Injury Concerns:
| Player | Status |
| Nayef Aguerd | Likely to miss the match |
| Sheraldo Becker | Likely to miss the match |
| Arsen Zakharyan | Likely to miss the match |
| Jon Pacheco | Likely to miss the match |
| Brais Mendez | Doubtful |
Real Madrid (4-2-3-1):
| Position | Player |
| Goalkeeper | Andriy Lunin |
| Defenders | Lucas Vazquez, Raul Asencio, Antonio Rudiger, Francisco Garcia |
| Midfielders | Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni |
| Forwards | Rodrygo, Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappe |
Real Sociedad (4-3-3):
| Position | Player |
| Goalkeeper | Remiro |
| Defenders | Traore, Zubeldia, Elustondo, Munoz |
| Midfielders | Sucic, Zubimendi, Marin |
| Forwards | Kubo, Oyarzabal, Barrenetxea |
Tactical Analysis
Real Madrid's tactical approach will likely focus on maintaining possession and exploiting the flanks with the pace of Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo. Ancelotti's side will aim to control the midfield battle, with Modrić's vision and Tchouaméni's defensive capabilities playing crucial roles.
Real Sociedad, meanwhile, will look to press high and disrupt Madrid's rhythm. Oyarzabal's movement and Kubo's creativity will be key in breaking down the Madrid defense. The visitors will need to be clinical in front of goal to overturn the first-leg deficit.
Key Players to Watch
· Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid: The former PSG striker has had an outstanding start at Real Madrid, scoring 33 goals in 45 games so far. This matches Cristiano Ronaldo's debut season goal tally at Real Madrid, with more than two months remaining in the current season. If Mbappé scores on Tuesday, he will surpass the iconic striker. Coach Ancelotti remarked, "It's not easy, but if Mbappé can achieve what Cristiano Ronaldo did with Real Madrid, he will become a legend like him."
Conclusion
The Copa del Rey semi-final second leg between Real Madrid and Real Sociedad promises to be a captivating encounter. With both teams eager to secure a spot in the final, fans can expect a high-intensity match filled with drama and excitement. Real Madrid's home advantage and attacking depth may give them the edge, but Real Sociedad's determination and tactical acumen could lead to an upset.
As the football world tunes in, the Santiago Bernabéu will witness a battle of skill, strategy, and passion, with the ultimate prize of a Copa del Rey final berth at stake.