Real Sociedad secured a dramatic victory over Basque rivals Athletic Bilbao to book their place in the final of the Copa del Rey, triumphing 1–0 in the second leg of the semifinal at the Reale Arena.
A late penalty converted by captain Mikel Oyarzabal sealed the win and confirmed a 2–0 aggregate victory for La Real, sending the San Sebastián club into the final where they will face Atlético Madrid in Seville on April 18.
For the passionate supporters in the Basque Country, the derby carried enormous significance. The encounter was intense, tactical, and emotionally charged — exactly what fans expect when two historic regional rivals collide on one of Spain’s biggest football stages.
A New Era Under Pellegrino Matarazzo
Much of Real Sociedad’s recent transformation has been attributed to head coach Pellegrino Matarazzo. Since taking charge in December, the American manager has revitalized the squad with a modern tactical approach built on disciplined pressing, intelligent midfield rotations, and quick attacking transitions.
Under his guidance, La Real have looked sharper and more confident in high-pressure matches. Their run to the final has included impressive performances, most notably eliminating FC Barcelona earlier in the tournament — a result that signaled the club’s serious ambitions for silverware.
Against Athletic, Matarazzo’s team executed a carefully balanced strategy: control possession, limit defensive risks, and strike decisively when the opportunity emerged.
Tactical Battle in a Tense First Half
The opening half reflected the stakes of the derby. Both teams approached the match cautiously, aware that a single mistake could prove decisive.
Real Sociedad gradually established control in midfield, with creative influence coming from Carlos Soler, who orchestrated several attacking moves and nearly broke the deadlock with a stunning free kick aimed at the top corner.
Athletic goalkeeper Alex Padilla reacted brilliantly, producing a spectacular save that kept his team alive in the contest.
La Real continued to push forward, dominating possession and forcing Athletic deeper into their defensive shape. A powerful shot from Soler was heroically blocked by defender Aitor Paredes, while Portuguese winger Gonçalo Guedes came close with an attempt that struck the side netting.
Despite Real Sociedad’s territorial advantage, the first half ended scoreless — setting up a dramatic second period.
Athletic Fight Back After the Break
After halftime, Athletic Bilbao — managed by experienced coach Ernesto Valverde — began playing with greater urgency.
The visitors increased their attacking intensity and started finding spaces near the Sociedad penalty area. Forward Iñaki Williams became more involved, using his pace to stretch the defense.
One of Athletic’s best opportunities came when Williams set up Álex Berenguer near the edge of the box, but the winger’s shot lacked precision and drifted wide of the target.
As the clock ticked toward full time, the match seemed destined to remain finely balanced — until a crucial moment changed everything.
The Decisive Penalty
In the 87th minute, Real Sociedad won a penalty following a physical aerial duel inside the box. Midfielder Íñigo Ruiz de Galarreta was judged to have pulled the shirt of Venezuelan international Yangel Herrera.
After a brief review by the video assistant referee, the referee confirmed the decision.
Up stepped Oyarzabal.
Known for his composure in decisive moments, the Spanish international calmly sent Padilla the wrong way, placing the ball into the corner of the net and igniting celebrations inside the stadium.
Late Drama but Sociedad Hold Firm
Athletic pushed desperately for an equalizer during stoppage time.
Midfielder Mikel Vesga came agonizingly close, forcing goalkeeper Unai Marrero to produce a brilliant save with his leg — a moment that effectively secured Sociedad’s place in the final.
In the dying seconds, Icelandic striker Orri Óskarsson nearly added a second goal when his powerful strike struck the crossbar.
But by then, the result was already decided.
A Historic Rivalry Continues
The victory extends Real Sociedad’s impressive home record against Athletic Bilbao, marking ten consecutive unbeaten Basque derbies at the Reale Arena.
The triumph also carries symbolic weight, echoing their historic victory over Athletic in the delayed 2020 Copa del Rey final — a match remembered as one of the most significant moments in the club’s modern history.
Eyes on the Final in Seville
Now, Real Sociedad turn their attention to the final against Atlético Madrid — a clash that promises to be a fascinating tactical contest.
Atlético, led by veteran manager Diego Simeone, are known for their defensive discipline and relentless competitive mentality. Sociedad, meanwhile, arrive with confidence, momentum, and a dynamic attacking structure.
For Matarazzo and his players, lifting the Copa del Rey would mark a defining achievement and confirm the club’s rise among Spain’s elite. (FUTNEWS24)
