Real Sociedad Advances to Copa del Rey Final, Will Face Atlético Madrid

MADRID, March 4 (Xinhua) – Real Sociedad will compete for the Copa del Rey title against Atlético Madrid after securing a 1-0 victory at home against Athletic Bilbao in the second leg of their semifinal on Wednesday, completing a 2-0 aggregate win.

Late Penalty Secures Sociedad’s Spot

The decisive moment arrived in the 87th minute when Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty awarded after a VAR review identified a shirt pull on Yangel Herrera. It was a great penalty from Mikel Oyarzabal. That should be that.

Match Recap: A Tactical Battle

Real Sociedad began the match aiming to pressure Athletic Bilbao high up the pitch, limiting their space in midfield and utilizing the speed of Goncalo Guedes and Ander Barrenetxea on the counterattack.

Guedes created early opportunities, earning two corners and prompting a flying save from Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Alex Padilla following a free kick won by Barrenetxea.

Guedes continued to be a threat, pulling the ball back from a tight angle in the 33rd minute, but the visiting defense managed to clear the danger. He nearly set up Carlos Soler after Aitor Paredes lost possession, but Paredes recovered with a crucial last-ditch challenge.

Second Half Sees Bilbao Push for an Equalizer

Athletic Bilbao increased their attacking intent in the second half. Oihan Sancet almost broke through on goal but was denied by a late challenge from Sergio Gomez, whereas Alex Berenguer similarly fired a shot wide.

Final Details

The final will be held on April 18th.

Key Takeaways

• Real Sociedad will face Atlético Madrid in the Copa del Rey final.
• Mikel Oyarzabal scored the winning goal from a penalty.
• The aggregate score was 2-0 in favor of Real Sociedad.

FAQ

When is the Copa del Rey final?

The final will be held on April 18th.

Who are the finalists?

Real Sociedad and Atlético Madrid are the finalists.

What was the aggregate score of Real Sociedad vs. Athletic Bilbao?

The aggregate score was 2-0 in favor of Real Sociedad.

Real Sociedad’s victory marks a significant achievement for the club and sets the stage for an exciting final against Atlético Madrid. The match promises to be a thrilling contest between two of Spain’s top teams.