Endrick Strike Gives Real Madrid Narrow Advantage in Copa del Rey Semi-Final

Endrick’s first-half goal earned Real Madrid a 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final tie at the Reale Arena on Wednesday. However, the match was marred by alleged racist abuse directed at Real Madrid players.

The game was briefly halted just before halftime due to reported chants of “Asencio die” aimed at Real Madrid defender Raul Asencio. Additionally, a video circulated on social media purportedly showing a Real Sociedad fan making monkey gestures towards Vinicius Junior during the stoppage.

On the pitch, Real Madrid, despite missing several key players, secured a slender advantage ahead of the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu on April 1st. Carlo Ancelotti rested Kylian Mbappe (dental problem), Fede Valverde, and Thibaut Courtois, giving opportunities to Arda Guler, Fran Garcia, and Eduardo Camavinga.

Endrick, the 18-year-old Brazilian forward, scored the decisive goal in the 19th minute. He latched onto a Jude Bellingham diagonal pass, controlled the ball expertly, and finished with the outside of his boot at the near post. It was Endrick’s sixth goal of the season, with four of those coming in the Copa del Rey, where he has received the most playing time.

Bellingham, returning from suspension, was influential in midfield, helping Madrid control much of the game. Vinicius Junior also threatened, forcing a save from Real Sociedad goalkeeper Alex Remiro.

Real Sociedad had their moments, particularly early in the second half. Andriy Lunin, in goal for Madrid, produced a fine double save to deny Mikel Oyarzabal and Takefusa Kubo. Endrick later struck the crossbar with a powerful shot from the edge of the box.

Remiro kept Real Sociedad in the tie with late saves to deny Bellingham on two occasions, ensuring the deficit remains just one goal heading into the second leg.

In the other semi-final first leg on Tuesday, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona played out a thrilling 4-4 draw. The incidents of alleged racist abuse overshadowed a tightly contested match and will likely be subject to further investigation.