Real Madrid fought back in their Copa del Rey semifinal second leg on Tuesday, securing a dramatic 4-4 draw against Real Sociedad thanks to Antonio Rudiger`s goal. This result ensured their progression to the final with a 5-4 aggregate victory. Carlo Ancelotti`s team will now face either Barcelona or Atletico Madrid in the final. However, the chaotic nature of this match raised questions about their readiness to compete for the trophy, as they had to recover from behind four times.
Real Madrid, renowned for their resilience and comeback ability, displayed a different kind of match. Their defense showed significant weaknesses, making multiple errors. David Alaba scored an own goal and narrowly avoided another, while Eduardo Camavinga struggled in the left-back position. These defensive lapses highlight depth concerns for Los Blancos as they balance commitments in La Liga and the Champions League, where they are set to face Arsenal in the quarterfinals. Between April 5th and 16th, they are scheduled to play Valencia, Alaves, and Arsenal twice – who are also facing their own challenges.
While Real Madrid should typically secure wins in La Liga matches even with squad rotation, recent performances suggest that their squad depth might not be as strong as previously perceived. They faced difficulties overcoming Leganes during the weekend, and many backup players struggled to impress in this Copa del Rey match until key starters were brought on to stabilize the team.
A Match of High Drama
Real Sociedad took an early lead in the 16th minute through Ander Barrenetxea, before Endrick equalized with a brilliant finish in the first half. However, Madrid`s defense was quickly breached again. Alaba`s own goal was followed by a goal from Mikel Oyarzabal. Responding swiftly, Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouameni scored within four minutes of each other, putting Real Madrid ahead. But Oyarzabal struck again in the 93rd minute, forcing the game to extra time. Although Rudiger`s goal prevented a penalty shootout, the match amplified doubts about Real Madrid`s overall potential this season.
Can Real Madrid Maintain La Liga Ambitions?
Competing on multiple fronts requires Ancelotti to effectively utilize his squad depth due to the demanding fixture schedule. However, relying too heavily on rotation might lead to dropped points in crucial matches. Real Madrid has failed to keep a clean sheet in their last seven games, and with Thibaut Courtois injured and Andriy Lunin stepping in, the defense appears more vulnerable. Trailing Barcelona by three points in La Liga, Real Madrid must manage player fitness for the Champions League. In this Copa del Rey game, key players like Kylian Mbappe, Rudiger, and Brahim Diaz had to be introduced, while Fede Valverde, Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, and Tchouameni played the full 120 minutes, potentially impacting their availability for upcoming weekend fixtures.
Balancing priorities is crucial, especially if Real Madrid prioritizes the Champions League. Having already secured a place in the Copa del Rey final, the possibility of a treble is alive. However, with Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal out for the season, the defense is stretched thin. Defensive weaknesses could be the biggest obstacle in their pursuit of major titles this season.
Looking Ahead
Real Madrid will play at home against Valencia on Saturday, aiming to take the sole lead in La Liga. Real Sociedad`s next match is on Sunday against Las Palmas. Playing against Las Palmas, who are in the relegation zone, presents an opportunity for Sociedad to climb closer to European qualification spots despite their inconsistent season so far.
Benedict Kingsley