Real Madrid predicted lineup vs Real Sociedad – Copa del Rey

Real Madrid are set to host Real Sociedad in the second leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final, a match that could take them one step closer to a highly coveted spot in this season’s final.

With a narrow lead from the first leg, thanks to a late goal from Endrick, Madrid will be looking to capitalize on their home advantage and make sure they see off La Real to book a place in the final.

Real Madrid’s journey in the Copa del Rey has often been overshadowed by their focus on other competitions, particularly the Champions League and La Liga. However, after securing the trophy in 2023, they’ll be hoping for another strong run this season. While the Copa del Rey might not be their primary target, Carlo Ancelotti will still recognize the importance of this fixture, especially with his future at the club possibly depending on the results of their campaigns in both La Liga and Europe.

The Challenge Ahead

Madrid will go into the game with confidence, having managed a 1-0 win away to Real Sociedad in the first leg, thanks to Endrick’s decisive strike. That goal has given them the upper hand, but with the unpredictability of knockout football, they cannot afford to take their foot off the gas. With the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, they’ll need to keep their focus and maintain their composure against a dangerous Real Sociedad side, who will be hungry for a comeback.

Ancelotti’s choices will be crucial, particularly given the tight schedule ahead for Madrid. A packed fixture list in April, including the upcoming Champions League quarter-final clash with Arsenal, means that he might make a few adjustments to the starting lineup. Let’s take a closer look at the predicted lineup for this pivotal second leg.

Real Madrid Predicted Lineup vs Real Sociedad (4-2-3-1)

Goalkeeper: Andriy Lunin

Andriy Lunin will likely take his place between the posts for this crucial encounter. With Thibaut Courtois still recovering from a knee injury and not yet ready to return to training, the Ukrainian goalkeeper’s inclusion is almost a certainty. Lunin has had his chances to impress this season and will be eager to show his worth in such an important match. Though not a long-term replacement for Courtois, his performances have been solid enough when called upon, and now it’s his opportunity to step up in a high-stakes scenario.

Right-Back: Lucas Vazquez

At right-back, we could see Lucas Vazquez earn a starting spot. Although Federico Valverde has been excellent in that position recently, Ancelotti may decide to rotate and rest the Uruguayan, particularly with a busy schedule on the horizon. Vazquez, a reliable veteran of the squad, may not have featured as regularly in 2025, but his experience and work rate could be vital in this match. With Valverde likely to be saved for the Champions League, Vazquez could find himself back in the starting XI.

Center-Back: Raul Asencio

Raul Asencio has emerged as one of the brightest talents in Real Madrid’s youth setup. His rapid rise to prominence has been one of the stories of the season, and his maturity on the ball and solid defensive performances make him a candidate to start in this crucial semi-final clash. Asencio has proven himself capable of stepping into the first team, and with the likes of Antonio Rudiger possibly getting a rest, the academy graduate could be handed another opportunity to shine in a key fixture.

Center-Back: David Alaba

Alongside Asencio, David Alaba is another player who could feature in the starting lineup. Alaba has not been as heavily involved since returning from a long-term knee injury, but he has shown glimpses of his quality when he’s been on the pitch. Given Rudiger’s potential rest and the tightness of the schedule, Ancelotti may opt for the experience of Alaba to shore up the defense. His ability to read the game and provide leadership in the backline could be crucial for Madrid’s hopes of keeping Real Sociedad at bay.

Left-Back: Fran Garcia

Fran Garcia is an automatic choice for the left-back position. With Ferland Mendy still sidelined through injury, Garcia is the only real option on the left flank. The Spaniard has been a regular starter for Madrid this season and has been solid in both attacking and defensive duties. He has the energy to get up and down the left wing, and his ability to support the attack while maintaining defensive solidity will be key against a pacey Real Sociedad side.

Central Midfield: Aurelien Tchouameni

In midfield, Aurelien Tchouameni is expected to return to the starting lineup. The Frenchman has impressed whenever he has featured this season and will likely be a key figure in this match. Tchouameni’s versatility and defensive qualities will be crucial in breaking up Real Sociedad’s attacks and allowing Madrid to control the midfield. Having been on the bench against Leganes, he will be fresh and raring to go in this critical fixture.

Central Midfield: Luka Modric

Luka Modric may be called upon again for this second leg. Despite his advancing years, the Croatian playmaker still possesses a wealth of experience and technical ability that makes him a valuable asset in big matches. With the likes of Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga potentially rested for the more demanding fixtures to come, Modric could take on a more prominent role in this game. His composure on the ball and ability to dictate the tempo of the match will be essential if Madrid are to see off Real Sociedad comfortably.

Right-Wing: Rodrygo

Rodrygo is likely to return to the starting lineup after making a cameo appearance off the bench in the weekend’s game against Leganes. The Brazilian winger has been in good form this season and is a key part of Madrid’s attacking unit. His pace, flair, and creativity on the right side will be important in stretching Real Sociedad’s defense. Rodrygo’s ability to take on defenders and deliver dangerous crosses could provide the width Madrid needs to break down La Real’s defensive setup.

Attacking Midfield: Brahim Diaz

In an attacking midfield role, Brahim Diaz could get another chance to start. The Spaniard has been a reliable performer whenever called upon, and his dribbling and vision will be crucial in linking up play between midfield and attack. With Jude Bellingham possibly being rested to manage his workload ahead of the Champions League quarter-finals, Diaz might step in and continue to make the most of his opportunities. He’s shown that he can make an impact in big games, and Ancelotti may rely on his spark in this important Copa del Rey clash.

Left-Wing: Vinicius Junior

Vinicius Junior will likely feature on the left wing. The Brazilian has had a somewhat quiet season compared to his remarkable performances in previous years, but he remains a potent threat on the left. After a tough international break, Vinicius will be eager to bounce back and make a significant contribution to Madrid’s cause. His speed, skill, and creativity are always a concern for opposing defenders, and he will be key in breaking down Real Sociedad’s defense.

Striker: Endrick

Endrick, the hero of the first leg, is expected to start once again. The Brazilian forward’s decisive goal in the first leg has given Madrid a crucial lead, and now he will be tasked with helping them seal the deal. Kylian Mbappe might be available for selection, but Ancelotti may prefer to give Endrick another opportunity to impress. The young striker’s confidence will be high after his match-winning performance, and he’ll be eager to continue his development with another solid showing in the second leg.

Conclusion

Real Madrid head into this second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final with a narrow advantage, but they know that Real Sociedad will come out fighting. Ancelotti’s lineup will be a mix of experienced players and promising talents, with an eye on both the immediate fixture and the packed schedule that follows. With players like Modric, Tchouameni, and Vinicius leading the charge, Madrid will look to control the game and preserve their slim lead.

While the Copa del Rey may not be Madrid’s primary focus this season, this match is nonetheless vital for their hopes of silverware. With a busy month ahead, Ancelotti will want to ensure that his team is ready for the challenges that lie ahead, both in Spain and in Europe. The stage is set for what promises to be an exciting and crucial encounter at the Santiago Bernabéu.