Real Madrid reach Copa del Rey final

KATHMANDU: Real Madrid have advanced to the Copa del Rey final after a dramatic extra-time victory against Real Sociedad on Tuesday.

Antonio Rudiger scored the decisive header in the 115th minute, keeping alive Madrid’s hopes of securing a record 13th title this season.

Coming on as a substitute, Rudiger met Arda Güler’s corner with a brilliant header, sending the home fans into jubilation. After the game ended 4-4 in regular time, Real Madrid emerged victorious with a 5-4 aggregate scoreline, having won the first leg 1-0.

The second half was nothing short of sensational, with both teams scoring five goals in the final 21 minutes. Ander Barrenetxea put Sociedad ahead in the 16th minute, before Endrick responded with a magnificent chip goal in the 30th minute to level the score.

In the 72nd minute, a self-inflicted own goal by David Alaba gave Sociedad the lead again, and Mikel Oyarzabal extended their advantage with a low drive in the 80th minute, making it 3-1.

However, Real Madrid fought back with two spectacular goals. Jude Bellingham netted a fantastic volley to make it 3-2, and then Aurélien Tchouaméni equalized with a header in the 86th minute.

But the drama didn’t stop there. In injury time, Sociedad captain Oyarzabal scored another header to give his team the lead once again, forcing the match into extra time.

Rudiger’s late header sealed the deal for Real Madrid, and with a 5-4 aggregate score, they booked their place in the final, keeping their hopes of a historic 21st Copa del Rey title alive.

With Barcelona just three points ahead in La Liga, and a Champions League quarter-final against Arsenal upcoming, Real Madrid’s pursuit of further silverware remains firmly intact.

On Wednesday, Atlético Madrid and Barcelona will face off in the second leg of the other semi-final, with the winner set to face Real Madrid in the final. The first leg ended in a 4-4 draw.