Real Madrid Faces Roster Challenges
Real Madrid will face a significant challenge in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Sociedad, as several key players are sidelined due to injuries. Ahead of the 21:30 CEST kick-off at Anoeta, the team has confirmed a squad that will be missing Fede Valverde, Kylian Mbappe, Eder Militao, Dani Carvajal, and Jesus Vallejo. Despite Carlo Ancelotti’s initial statements on Tuesday, the team’s official announcement on Wednesday clarified that these players will not be available for the crucial match. The absence of such crucial figures will certainly impact the dynamics of the team, but the silver lining is the return of Jude Bellingham, who is set to feature in the only game of a four-game suspension where he is eligible to play. Bellingham’s presence provides a much-needed boost, and Diario AS expects him to start alongside Lucas Vazquez at right-back, with Brahim Diaz taking center stage up front.
Real Sociedad’s Boost with Key Returns
On the other side, Real Sociedad manager Imanol Alguacil has announced that Luka Sucic and Nayef Aguerd will return from injury, offering a significant lift to the team’s lineup. Both players are expected to play crucial roles in the match, with Sucic likely to partner Martin Zubimendi and Brais Mendez in midfield. However, the team will be without Jon Pacheco, Arsen Azkharyan, and Alvaro Odriozola, who are all out due to fitness issues. The return of Aguerd and Sucic is a moral and tactical boost for Real Sociedad, who have struggled in recent head-to-head encounters with Real Madrid, winning only one of the last 13 meetings. Sheraldo Becker will also be absent from the lineup, with Ander Barrenetxea and Takefusa Kubo expected to play wing positions supporting Mikel Oyarzabal in attack.
The Tactical Lineups
Both Madrid-based outlets, Diario AS and Marca, have aligned on their predictions for Real Madrid’s lineup. Marca believes that Thibaut Courtois will be replaced by Andriy Lunin, marking a rare start for the Ukrainian goalkeeper. Additionally, Endrick Felipe is expected to be given a chance to shine in the absence of Mbappe. This could be a significant opportunity for the young forward to prove his worth and potentially influence the coach’s decisions in upcoming matches. For Real Sociedad, the return of Aguerd and Sucic not only strengthens their defense and midfield but also provides more options for Alguacil to orchestrate his team’s tactics. The lineup suggests a well-balanced approach, with the midfield trio of Mendez, Zubimendi, and Sucic providing both defensive solidity and creative support.
Historical Context and Recent Form
The upcoming clash at Anoeta carries significant historical weight for Real Madrid. The club has not won a Copa del Rey match in Donostia-San Sebastian for over 60 years, a streak that adds a layer of pressure and motivation for Los Blancos. On the other hand, Real Sociedad is looking to break a concerning trend of poor performances against Real Madrid. Their last victory against the giants was in the 2020 Copa del Rey, where they triumphed at the Santiago Bernabeu en route to lifting the trophy. This historical context sets the stage for a highly charged and competitive match, with both teams eager to make history in their favor.
The Importance of the Match
The Copa del Rey semi-final is a critical juncture for both teams. For Real Madrid, the absence of key players means that the squad will have to find new ways to impose themselves on the game. Ancelotti will need to rely on the depth and versatility of his remaining squad to compensate for the missing stars. Jude Bellingham’s availability is a lifeline, as he has shown leadership and skill in pivotal matches this season. For Real Sociedad, the return of Aguerd and Sucic, along with the expected lineup, signals a strong and determined approach. Alguacil has emphasized the importance of home advantage and the need for his team to leverage their familiarity with the Anoeta stadium.
Pre-Match Atmosphere and Expectations
The atmosphere leading up to the match is electric, with fans from both sides anticipating a high-stakes battle. Real Madrid’s supporters are hopeful that the team can overcome their injury woes and secure a positive result, while Real Sociedad’s fans are buoyed by the return of their injured stalwarts. The Anoeta stadium is known for its intimidating environment, and Real Madrid will need to bring their best to silence the passionate home crowd. The match promises to be a test of resilience and tactical acumen, with both teams aware that a strong performance can set the tone for the second leg. The spotlight will be on how Ancelotti and Alguacil deploy their available resources to outmaneuver each other and advance to the final.
