Real Madrid kept their hopes of a historic Treble intact in dramatic style, securing a place in the Copa del Rey final with a thrilling extra-time victory over Real Sociedad. 

Antonio Rüdiger emerged as the hero, heading in the decisive goal from Arda Güler’s 115th-minute corner to send the Bernabéu into a frenzy.

The match was an electrifying spectacle, especially in the second half, where five goals were scored in a span of just 21 minutes. Sociedad, trailing from the first leg, struck first in the 16th minute through Ander Barrenetxea to level the aggregate score. 

However, teenage sensation Endrick responded with a sublime chip in the 30th minute, restoring Madrid’s advantage.

The chaos continued when David Alaba’s own goal in the 72nd minute put Sociedad ahead on the night. Mikel Oyarzabal then added another eight minutes later, giving the visitors a 3-2 aggregate lead. But Jude Bellingham quickly answered with a stunning volley to bring Madrid back on level terms.

Aurelien Tchouaméni thought he had sealed Madrid’s final berth in the 86th minute, capitalizing on a goalkeeper blunder, only for Oyarzabal to strike again in stoppage time, forcing extra time.

With the game hanging in the balance, Rüdiger delivered the final blow, heading home in extra time to secure a dramatic 5-4 aggregate triumph.

Madrid remain in contention for their first-ever Treble, sitting just three points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona and preparing for a Champions League quarter-final clash with Arsenal. 

Meanwhile, Barcelona and Atlético Madrid will battle on Wednesday to determine Real’s final opponent, following their thrilling 4-4 first-leg draw.

Source: BBC

BDST: 0941 HRS, APR 02, 2025
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