Real Madrid managed a 4-4 draw against Real Sociedad in the second leg of their Copa del Rey semifinal on Tuesday, thanks to Antonio Rudiger`s crucial goal. This result secured their place in the final with a 5-4 aggregate victory. They now await either Barcelona or Atletico Madrid in the final. However, the match against Real Sociedad raised concerns as Real Madrid had to come back from behind four times, casting doubt on their path to the trophy.
Known for their fighting spirit, Real Madrid are accustomed to comebacks, but this game felt different. Their defense showed significant weaknesses throughout the match. David Alaba scored an own goal and was nearly responsible for another, while Eduardo Camavinga struggled at left-back. With a busy schedule ahead, balancing La Liga and Champions League commitments, and an upcoming quarterfinal against Arsenal, the need for reliable squad depth is evident. Between April 5th and 16th, they are scheduled to play Valencia, Alaves, and Arsenal twice. Arsenal themselves are also facing challenges.
Real Madrid should typically win their La Liga matches even with squad rotation. However, recent performances suggest their squad depth might not be as strong as previously believed. They faced difficulties against Leganes recently, and many backup players struggled to impress in the Copa del Rey match until key starters were brought on to stabilize the game.
Chaotic Match Summary
Real Sociedad took an early lead in the 16th minute with a goal from Ander Barrenetxea. Endrick equalized for Real Madrid with a skillful finish in the first half, but Madrid`s defense faltered again. Alaba`s own goal was quickly followed by a goal from Mikel Oyarzabal. In a swift response, Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouameni scored within four minutes to put Real Madrid back in the lead. However, Oyarzabal scored again in the 93rd minute, forcing the game to a draw. While Rudiger`s goal prevented a penalty shootout, the match amplified questions about Real Madrid`s overall capabilities.
La Liga Title Chances?
Competing on multiple fronts requires Carlo Ancelotti to utilize his full squad due to the high volume of games. However, relying heavily on squad rotation could lead to dropped points. Real Madrid has not kept a clean sheet in their last seven games. With Thibaut Courtois injured and Andriy Lunin taking his place, the defense appears weaker. Trailing Barcelona by three points in La Liga, Real Madrid must manage player fitness for the Champions League. In this Copa del Rey match, key players like Kylian Mbappe, Rudiger, and Brahim Diaz had to be substituted in, while Fede Valverde, Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, and Tchouameni played the entire 120 minutes, potentially causing fatigue for upcoming weekend matches.
It`s a delicate balancing act, especially with the Champions League being a major priority for Real Madrid. Having already reached the Copa del Rey final, the possibility of a treble is alive. However, with long-term injuries to Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal, the defense is stretched thin. Defensive vulnerabilities could be the biggest obstacle in their pursuit of titles.
Looking Ahead
Real Madrid will play Valencia at home on Saturday, aiming to take the sole lead in La Liga. Real Sociedad`s next game is on Sunday against Las Palmas. Facing Las Palmas, who are in the relegation zone, presents an opportunity for Real Sociedad to climb closer to European qualification spots despite their inconsistent season so far.
