Real Madrid Face Copa del Rey Semi-Final with Multiple Absences

In-Depth Analysis

Real Madrid seeks their fourth final of the season as they host Real Sociedad. Carrying a 1-0 lead secured by Endrick's goal in San Sebastián, Carlo Ancelotti's side aims to reach their third Copa del Rey final under his management. However, the injury list significantly impacts the lineup.

The absence of Courtois means Andriy Lunin continues in goal, having played throughout the cup run. The defence sees major changes: Lucas Vázquez starts at right-back, with Alaba returning alongside youngster Asencio centrally, and Camavinga deployed out of position at left-back due to Mendy's injury and to rest Fran García. The midfield sees the return of rested regulars Fede Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni, supporting Jude Bellingham.

Perhaps the most notable change is upfront. Kylian Mbappé, despite his recent goalscoring form, is benched, giving 18-year-old Endrick his first start at the Santiago Bernabéu. The Brazilian youngster is Real Madrid's top scorer in this season's Copa with four goals and will be flanked by compatriots Vinícius and Rodrygo.

Real Sociedad, despite facing a tough challenge, has a history of performing well in the Copa at the Bernabéu. They famously eliminated Madrid 4-3 in the 2020 quarterfinals. Imanol Alguacil welcomes back key players Ander Barrenetxea and Nayef Aguerd, though they are still missing Brais Méndez, Álvaro Odriozola, Arsen Zakharyan, Sheraldo Becker, and Jon Pacheco. Mikel Oyarzabal is fit to start, bolstering their attack as they aim for an upset and a place in the final.

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FAQ

- **Q: Who are the key players missing for Real Madrid?

- **Q: What was the score in the first leg?

- **Q: Why are Mbappé and Rüdiger on the bench?

Takeaways

Real Madrid's defensive vulnerabilities due to injuries could be exploited by Real Sociedad.
This match presents a major opportunity for young talents like Endrick and Raúl Asencio to prove their worth on a big stage.
Despite the odds, Real Sociedad's history in the Copa del Rey at the Bernabéu suggests they shouldn't be underestimated.

Discussion

Can Real Madrid's rotated squad hold off Real Sociedad's challenge? Do you think Endrick will shine in his first Bernabéu start? Let us know!

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Sources

Source 1: Real Madrid con múltiples bajas para Semifinal de Copa del Rey - ESPN Source 2: Alineación confirmada del Real Madrid ante la Real Sociedad hoy en Copa del Rey - AS.com Source 3: EN VIVO: ¡Mbappé a la banca! Real Madrid confirma su trastocada alineación para la semifinal de vuelta por la Copa del Rey - DIEZ.HN

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