Real Sociedad Edges Athletic Bilbao in Copa del Rey Semifinal
In a tightly contested Basque Country derby, Real Sociedad edged past Athletic Bilbao with a narrow 1-0 victory in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semifinal on Wednesday at the iconic San Mames Stadium. The crucial goal came from Beñat Turrientes, who found the back of the net in the 62nd minute from close range, giving Sociedad a vital advantage ahead of the return leg scheduled for March.
Sociedad’s Semifinal Journey
This marks Sociedad’s third consecutive appearance in the semifinals of the Copa del Rey, as they seek to return to the final for the first time since their triumph during the 2019-20 season, which secured them their third Copa title. On the other hand, Athletic Bilbao, in the semifinals for the sixth time in seven years, achieved glory in 2024 against Mallorca and previously finished as runners-up to Barcelona in both the 2020-21 and 2019-20 tournaments.
Athletic Bilbao’s Recent Struggles
Although Athletic Bilbao had a successful streak against Sociedad prior to this match, with two victories in a row, they have struggled recently, failing to win their last four encounters against their Basque rivals. Athletic Bilbao holds a record of 24 Copa titles, trailing only behind Barcelona’s impressive 32, while Real Madrid follows with 20.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, Thursday will see Atletico Madrid facing defending champions Barcelona in the first leg of the other semifinal. Barcelona has consistently reached the Copa del Rey’s semifinals for four consecutive seasons, while Atletico Madrid is making their third straight appearance at this stage, last reaching the final when they claimed the title in 2019-20.
Athletic Bilbao’s journey to the semifinals was highlighted by Iñaki Williams securing a dramatic 2-1 win over Valencia with a goal in stoppage time, while Sociedad progressed by defeating Alaves 3-2.
