Real Sociedad first team to book their place in the Semis
The Basque side beat RC Celta Vigo (1-2) thanks to goals from Oyarzabal and Becker. In doing so they booked their place in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey, despite De la Torre pulling one back for Vigo in stoppage time.
The Estadio de Balaídos generated a spectacular pre-match atmosphere to welcome the arrival of Rafa Benítez's side, creating a buzz around the stadium that was befitting of a match of such stature.
In spite of the vibrant atmosphere, Real Sociedad struck first with barely a minute and a half played. Mikel Oyarzabal took advantage of a Mikel Merino cross to head the ball into the back of the net from close range to put his side into the lead. Ahead on the scoreboard, Imanol Alguacil's team were able to take control of the ball, control the pace of the game and enjoy the lion’s share of the chances. Conversely, Celta Vigo tried to trouble the Real Sociedad backline, but with little success. The game got to half-time following an intense first half with both teams giving it their all, as one would expect with a place in the semi-finals at stake.
The momentum of the match changed after the restart. Rafa Benítez's team were more on the front foot, creating more pressure in the opposition half and managing to dominate more of the ball. However, It was while Celta Vigo were on the attack that the second Real Sociedad goal arrived. Brais launched a ball into space that Becker, making his debut, was able to run on to and he did not waste his chance, with an excellent finish when one-on-one with the Vigo goalkeeper Iván.
In stoppage time, De la Torre pulled one back with a low left-footed drilled shot that kept things exciting right to the end.
Real are back in the Copa del Rey semi-finals four years after their last appearance, and one mustn’t forget that the last time they got to this stage, they managed to go all the way and lift the title.
This Wednesday, two more places in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey are up for grabs in two exciting ties: RCD Mallorca-Girona FC and Athletic Club-FC Barcelona, who are the two most successful teams in the competition. The tie between Atlético Madrid and Sevilla is on Thursday.
| Date | Time | Match | Result | Qualifier | Highlights | Match stats | Press Conference |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, 23 January 2024 | 21:30 | RC Celta de Vigo - Real Sociedad | 1-2 | Real Sociedad | Watch here | See match Stats | Listen here |
| Wednesday, 24 January 2024 | 19:30 | RCD Mallorca - Girona FC | |||||
| Wednesday, 24 January 2024 | 21:30 | Athletic Club - FC Barcelona | |||||
| Thursday 25 January 2024 | 21:30 | Atlético de Madrid - Sevilla FC |
The semi-final draw will be held this Friday 26 January at 13:00 . Broadcast live on Teledeporte, Movistar and across the RFEF official channels we will find out the pairings for the semi-finals of this year’s spectacular Copa del Rey.
COPA DEL REY HOMEPAGE: COPADELREY.RFEF.ES
Image: @RealSociedad