Rüdiger Heads Real Madrid into Copa del Rey Final After 8-Goal Thriller vs. Sociedad

The Copa del Rey semi-final second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu was an unforgettable spectacle. Real Sociedad initially took the lead through Ander Barrenetxea (16'), before Real Madrid's Endrick levelled the score before halftime (30').

The real drama unfolded late in the second half. David Alaba, still working his way back to peak form after over a year out injured, unfortunately turned the ball into his own net (72') to put Sociedad 2-1 up. Just eight minutes later, a Mikel Oyarzabal shot deflected off Alaba again and found the net (though credited to Oyarzabal) for 3-1 (80').

Facing elimination, Real Madrid mounted a furious comeback. Jude Bellingham pulled one back (82'), followed quickly by Aurélien Tchouaméni's equalizer (86'), making it 3-3. Yet, the twists weren't over. Oyarzabal struck again deep into stoppage time (90'+3) to force the match into extra time.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti substituted the unlucky Alaba for Antonio Rüdiger at the start of the extra period. It proved a masterstroke. In the 115th minute, Rüdiger rose to meet a set-piece, heading home the goal that ultimately decided the tie at 4-4, sending Real Madrid through 5-4 on aggregate.

This continues a trend for Rüdiger, who also scored the decisive penalty in the Champions League shootout against Atlético Madrid earlier in the season, cementing his reputation for delivering in crucial moments.

What was the final score?

The match ended 4-4 after extra time. Real Madrid won 5-4 on aggregate over the two legs.

Who scored the winning goal for Real Madrid?

Antonio Rüdiger scored the decisive goal with a header in the 115th minute of extra time.

Why was David Alaba substituted?

Alaba, recently returned from a long-term injury, had a difficult spell, scoring an own goal and having another shot deflect in off him. He was replaced by Rüdiger at the start of extra time.

Who will Real Madrid play in the final?

Real Madrid will face the winner of the other semi-final between Atlético Madrid and FC Barcelona.

What a rollercoaster! Real Madrid's path to the final was anything but straightforward. Do you think this dramatic win gives them momentum, or do the defensive issues worry you for the final?

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