MATCH REPORT | Blue paints the first stripe over white (0–1)
Real Sociedad, thanks to a goal from Turrientes, take the edge in the Basque derby in the race for a place in the grand final, which will ultimately be decided at Anoeta.
The first semifinal of the Copa del Rey carried a full-on Basque flavor. The derby arrived at a packed San Mamés, promising a thrilling clash worthy of a competition steeped in history—one that has seen Athletic Club lift the trophy 24 times and Real Sociedad three.
From kickoff, the contest was evenly balanced, both sides trading blows in a tight first half. The txuri-urdin gradually grew into the game and had the clearest chance before the break. Carlos Soler swung in a free kick from the flank, Jon Martín rose to meet it with a header, and Padilla was forced into action to keep it out.
Check the MATCH DETAILS and OFFICIAL REPORT
With the score still level and Real Sociedad determined to stay on the front foot, the second half began. Padilla once again proved decisive with a superb double save to preserve the 0–0.
But persistence paid off. Just past the hour mark, Carlos Soler threaded a brilliant pass through to Guedes, who delicately lifted the ball past Padilla with the tip of his boot. Turrientes was there to turn it home for 0–1—a goal that ultimately gives Real Sociedad the advantage in the tie.
Despite several attempts from Athletic Club, the scoreline remained unchanged. Anoeta, in March, will decide who becomes the first finalist of the Copa del Rey.
