Real Madrid vs Real Sociedad: A Chaotic Comeback or a Warning for Carlo Ancelotti?

Real Madrid secured a spot in the Copa del Rey final after a chaotic and dramatic 4-4 draw against Real Sociedad at the Santiago Bernabéu. Adding this result to their 1-0 first-leg win in San Sebastián, Los Blancos clinched a 5-4 aggregate victory. However, despite their progression, the nature of the performance raised serious questions about the team’s defensive fragility and overall readiness for the crucial fixtures ahead.

With injuries hampering squad selection, Carlo Ancelotti took calculated risks in his lineup. The absence of Thibaut Courtois, Antonio Rüdiger, and Kylian Mbappé meant that Madrid entered the match without three of their most crucial players. This decision proved to be a gamble, as Madrid conceded four goals at home—a rarity under Ancelotti. The defensive issues on display highlighted the delicate balance between squad rotation and maintaining solidity at the back.

Ancelotti’s Selection Dilemma and Lunin’s Frustrating Night

Ancelotti addressed squad concerns in his pre-match press conference, stating, “It remains to be seen, Lunin can play, Courtois can play and if they are injured, Fran González plays, and if we don’t reach the final, none of the three will play.” This statement hinted at the ongoing goalkeeper conundrum, especially given that Lunin had started every Champions League game this season while Courtois had yet to feature.

On the night, Lunin was left helpless by a porous defense. Real Sociedad’s opener came from Ander Barrenetxea’s strike, which wasn’t an unstoppable shot, but the Ukrainian shot-stopper had no chance due to his defenders leaving him exposed. Adding to the misery, David Alaba scored two own goals, further dismantling Madrid’s defensive structure. Despite conceding four, Lunin couldn’t be blamed entirely, as Madrid’s defensive setup looked disjointed.

Endrick: Madrid’s Teenage Sensation Delivers Again

One of the few positives from this chaotic contest was the continued rise of Endrick. The 17-year-old Brazilian has been exceptional in the Copa del Rey, and his well-timed goal against Sociedad saw him level with Atlético Madrid’s Julián Álvarez in the tournament’s scoring charts. His ability to exploit high defensive lines and finish with composure, as seen in his chip over Alex Remiro, showed why Madrid fans are excited about his potential.

Vinícius Júnior also had a much-improved performance compared to recent showings. Not only did he work hard off the ball, but he also produced two brilliant assists. His outrageous 60-yard outside-of-the-boot pass to Endrick was the kind of visionary play that few can execute. Later, he set up Jude Bellingham with a precise cross, which the Englishman volleyed into the net to bring Madrid level at 2-2.

Vinícius’ impact was reminiscent of the praise he has received over the years. As Andreas Pereira once said, he appears “touched by God”, with the ball naturally gravitating toward him. Despite some heavy touches and defensive lapses, his attacking contributions were invaluable.

Defensive Nightmare: Alaba’s Struggles and Tactical Experiments

Madrid’s defensive woes were magnified by Alaba’s struggles. Making only his fourth start since recovering from a year-long injury layoff, the Austrian looked off the pace. While neither of his own goals were glaring errors, they were the type of unfortunate moments that an experienced defender would usually avoid. His reaction times and positioning seemed affected by his long absence, exposing Madrid’s vulnerability at the back.

Lucas Vázquez also had a tough night, struggling with the defensive demands of the right-back role. Though he wasn’t solely responsible for the first goal, his lack of athleticism and defensive awareness was evident. Ancelotti’s decision to play midfielders Fede Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga as full-backs added to the defensive instability, making Madrid susceptible to Sociedad’s relentless attacks.

Bellingham’s Brilliance and Rüdiger’s Late Heroics

Jude Bellingham continues to prove why he is one of Madrid’s most valuable players. His technical excellence was on full display, from his awe-inspiring first touches to his incisive passing in the final third. His well-taken volley from Vinícius’ cross was a moment of quality in an otherwise chaotic game, ensuring Madrid remained competitive despite their defensive struggles.

Antonio Rüdiger eventually sealed the win in extra time, scoring the decisive goal with a towering header from an Arda Güler corner. The young Turkish midfielder played a deeper role in this match, orchestrating play with his precise passing. His in-swinging corner for Rüdiger’s winner was the perfect example of his quality delivery.

A Copa del Rey Final Awaits, But Problems Persist

Despite the thrilling nature of Madrid’s comeback, this performance raises concerns ahead of the final on April 26 at Estadio La Cartuja in Seville. They will face either Atlético Madrid or FC Barcelona—both of whom have beaten them this season. If Atlético progress, the final will carry extra significance, as Diego Simeone’s side will be desperate for silverware. A Clásico final, on the other hand, would bring additional pressure, given Barcelona’s historical dominance in this competition.

Madrid’s attacking depth is undeniably impressive, but their defensive frailties could prove costly against top opposition. Ancelotti’s biggest challenge now is finding the right balance between rotation and defensive stability. If Madrid hope to lift the Copa del Rey trophy, they cannot afford another defensive meltdown like the one against Sociedad.

For now, this was a night of celebration, but Madrid must quickly shift focus. The Champions League quarter-finals against Arsenal and tricky La Liga fixtures against Valencia, Alavés, and Athletic Club will test their resilience. Whether this dramatic 4-4 draw was a true comeback or a warning sign remains to be seen.

Read More: Cristiano Ronaldo vs Kylian Mbappé: A Tale of Two Debut Seasons at Real Madrid

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