Real Sociedad Set Course for La Cartuja (1–0)

This was no ordinary match — and certainly no ordinary derby — for Real Sociedad and Athletic Club. The prize was not three points or local bragging rights, but a coveted place in the final of Spain’s most cherished cup competition. Waiting there are Atlético de Madrid, who had secured their spot 24 hours earlier after overcoming Barcelona in their two-legged tie.

La Real arrived with a slender 1–0 advantage from the first leg, but nothing is ever guaranteed in a Basque derby. Ninety minutes at the Reale Arena could change everything.

As expected, the intensity inside Anoeta was electric from the outset. Both sides attacked with purpose, the tempo relentless from the first whistle. Fierce duels, suffocating pressing and roaring support — from the home faithful and the thousand travelling Athletic fans — created a cauldron-like atmosphere.

In the 13th minute, Padilla had to produce a flying save to prevent Real Sociedad from extending their aggregate lead after a Carlos Soler free-kick. La Real sought to control the tempo, accelerating whenever space appeared, while Athletic responded with swift transitions that kept the defence alert.

As the half wore on, the contest became an even tighter tactical and physical battle in midfield. Goalless at the break, the tension remained palpable — with the sense that one decisive moment would tilt the balance.

The second half began with Athletic pushing higher. A Williams surge into the area in the 51st minute set alarm bells ringing among the home crowd. Yet time gradually ticked in Real Sociedad’s favour, as they preserved their first-leg edge while continuing to threaten on the counter.

Then, minutes before full-time, Mikel Oyarzabal converted from the penalty spot to settle the tie and spark a frantic finale. The closing stages were breathless, with chances at both ends and the stands in full voice, but when the final whistle blew it was Real Sociedad who celebrated.

With another narrow 1–0 victory — sealing a 2–0 aggregate triumph — La Real advance to their second Copa del Rey final in the last seven years, setting their sights firmly on La Cartuja.