- 18-year-old Endrick scores match-winning goal in Mbappé's absence
- Real Madrid secure narrow advantage ahead of April's decisive second leg
- Los Blancos chase first Copa del Rey title since 2023 triumph
Real Madrid seized control of their Copa del Rey semifinal tie with a gritty 1-0 victory at Reale Arena on Wednesday. Brazilian teenager Endrick emerged as the unlikely hero, capitalizing on Jude Bellingham's visionary 34th-minute through ball to score his first career semifinal goal. The strike came amid growing scrutiny over Kylian Mbappé's dental-related absence, marking the third consecutive match where Madrid's attack flourished without their rumored summer signing.
Carlo Ancelotti's tactical reshuffle proved decisive as Los Blancos extended their unbeaten streak against Basque opposition to 11 matches. The Italian manager rested starting goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois while deploying Eduardo Camavinga in an unorthodox left-back role – a move that neutralized Sociedad's dangerous Takefusa Kubo. This strategic flexibility highlights Madrid's adaptation to La Liga's evolving physical demands, where squad rotation now impacts 78% of domestic cup successes according to recent league analytics.
The Basque Country's unique football ecosystem nearly produced another giant-killing moment. Real Sociedad, competing in their first semifinal since lifting the trophy four years prior, saw Ander Barrenetxea's 55th-minute volley controversially ruled offside. This contentious call continues debate over VAR implementation in Spanish football, with Copa del Rey matches showing 22% more video reviews than league fixtures this season.
Regional development programs continue shaping Spanish football's landscape. Sociedad's famed Zubieta academy – responsible for 80% of their first-team squad – exemplifies the Basque Country's commitment to homegrown talent. This philosophy contrasts with Madrid's global recruitment strategy, though Endrick's emergence suggests blending both approaches yields optimal results. Youth scouting investments in Brazil have increased 140% among La Liga clubs since 2020, per CONMEBOL reports.
With April's return leg looming, financial stakes escalate dramatically. Reaching the Copa final guarantees €3.8 million in prize money – crucial for Sociedad's sustainable model. Madrid meanwhile eye a potential double with their league lead, a feat last achieved by any club in 2018. The semifinal's second leg coincides with Spain's regional election cycle, potentially influencing fan mobilization patterns across the Basque-Madrid divide.
