Real Madrid host Real Sociedad at the Santiago Bernabeu in the second leg of the 2024/2025 Copa del Rey semi-final. The decisive clash takes place on Wednesday 2 April 2025 at 01:00 IST.
Los Blancos won the first leg at Sociedad 1-0, with Endrick’s 19th-minute strike giving Carlo Ancelotti’s side a narrow lead.
Now Madrid are determined to finish the job and book their place in the final. Should they do so, they will face the winner of Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.
Squad losses and rotation
Carlo Ancelotti has named his squad for the game, but Thibaut Courtois is again absent through injury.
Dani Ceballos, Ferland Mendy, Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao have also been ruled out for the same reason. The absence of several key players could upset the balance of the team.
However, Ancelotti remains confident about his squad. No youngsters have been called up, suggesting he will rely on experience in this crucial encounter.
Changes in defence and midfield
David Alaba has the potential to break into the starting line-up. His presence could add some solidity to Madrid’s backline and help to thwart Sociedad’s attacks.
In midfield, Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga are likely to get more game time. They will be expected to control the game.
Meanwhile, Luka Modric and Aurelien Tchouameni will be important options to maintain the rhythm of the game. Ancelotti’s choice of midfielders will go a long way towards determining the final result.
Attacking trio and hope in front of goal
Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo and Kylian Mbappe are the main contenders for the front line. They have the pace and creativity to break down Sociedad’s defence.
Endrick, who scored the winner in the first leg, could also surprise. Brahim Diaz and Fran Garcia could be other options to add firepower.
Madrid need a win or at least a draw to qualify. With the strength of their front line, they have a good chance of booking their place in the final.
Real Madrid Squad vs Real Sociedad
- Goalkeepers: Lunin, Fran Gonzalez, Sergio Mestre.
- Defenders: Alaba, Rudiger, Lucas V, Vallejo, Fran Garcia.
- Midfielders: Bellingham, Camavinga, Valverde, Modric, Tchouameni, Arda Guler.
- Forwards: Vinicius Junior, Mbappe, Rodrygo, Endrick, Brahim.
With this squad, Real Madrid are ready to maintain their lead and reach the final.
Source: Managing Madrid