A thrilling contest in San Sebastián saw Real Madrid edge past Real Sociedad to secure a place in the Copa del Rey final after a dramatic 4-4 draw on Tuesday night.

With a 5-4 aggregate victory, Los Blancos will now face either Barcelona or Atletico Madrid in the final.

Antonio Rudiger settled the semi-final with a powerful header in the 115th minute, ensuring Madrid advanced after an intense battle. Sociedad, trailing 1-0 from the first leg, came out strong and took the lead through Ander Barrenetxea, sparking hopes of a comeback.

Madrid responded swiftly as Brazilian youngster Endrick produced a brilliant chip to level the score. However, Sociedad regained control when a David Alaba own goal and Mikel Oyarzabal’s deflected strike gave them an advantage over the Spanish champions.

READ ALSO: Saka scores as Arsenal beats Fulham

Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouameni hit back for Madrid, keeping the game finely poised. Sociedad refused to back down, with Oyarzabal grabbing his second goal in stoppage time to push the match into extra time.

As penalties loomed, Rudiger delivered the decisive moment with a clinical header from a well-placed corner. Speaking after the match, the German defender expressed his joy, highlighting the resilience Madrid showed throughout the game.

Madrid now await the outcome of the second semi-final, where Atletico Madrid host Barcelona on Wednesday. The tie remains finely balanced at 4-4 on aggregate, setting up another potential thriller to decide who will meet Los Blancos in the final.

NAN