Courtois Out Again as Real Madrid Faces Real Sociedad in Copa del Rey Clash
Real Madrid fans were hoping for good news ahead of their crucial Copa del Rey showdown against Real Sociedad, but Carlo Ancelotti’s squad list has left many disappointed. Once again, Thibaut Courtois is absent, raising concerns about his recovery and the true extent of his injury. The Belgian goalkeeper, who had already missed the previous match against Leganés, remains unavailable due to ongoing discomfort since his return from international duty.
With Courtois sidelined, Ancelotti is forced to rely on Andriy Lunin, Fran González, and Sergio Mestre as his goalkeeping options. While Lunin has stepped up in Courtois' absence this season, his performance will be under scrutiny in this high-stakes cup fixture. The squad is further weakened by the continued absences of Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, Ferland Mendy, and Dani Ceballos, leaving Madrid with a depleted defense as they prepare to face a determined Real Sociedad side.
The attacking front, however, remains packed with firepower. VinÃcius Jr., Rodrygo, and the much-anticipated Kylian Mbappé will lead the charge, alongside the experienced Luka Modrić and emerging talents like Endrick. Madrid’s midfield, featuring Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, and Aurélien Tchouaméni, is expected to dominate possession and dictate the pace of the game.
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On the other side, Real Sociedad is determined to capitalize on Madrid’s defensive vulnerabilities. Coach Imanol Alguacil has made it clear that his team is confident in their ability to reach the final. Despite trailing 0-1 from the first leg, the Basque club believes they can turn the tide at the Santiago Bernabéu. Alguacil emphasized the importance of precision and efficiency, stating that his squad needs to be “acertados” (accurate) in front of goal to stand a chance.
The last time these two teams met in a high-stakes Copa del Rey encounter, Real Sociedad shocked Madrid with a thrilling 3-4 victory at the Bernabéu in 2020. Although only six players from that squad remain, the memory of that triumph fuels their belief in another upset. However, Madrid’s squad depth and star power make them firm favorites.
Beyond the tactical battle, there’s also the looming presence of Mbappé. The French forward has been a game-changer in almost every match he’s played, and Sociedad will need to find a way to neutralize his threat. Ancelotti, as always, remains calm and composed, knowing that experience and individual brilliance often decide cup ties like these.
As the match approaches, the stakes couldn't be higher. Madrid is chasing silverware on multiple fronts, with La Liga, the Champions League, and now the Copa del Rey all within their grasp. But Real Sociedad is determined to crash the party and prove that they are not just spectators in Spanish football’s grandest moments.
With or without Courtois, Madrid will have to step up. The Bernabéu is ready, the fans are eager, and all eyes are on this Copa del Rey showdown. Will Madrid’s firepower prevail, or will Sociedad pull off another historic upset? The stage is set for an unforgettable night of football.
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