Real Madrids Tactical Rotations Secure Advantage Against Real Sociedad

 

Endrick Shines as Madrid’s Hidden Gem

Real Madrid’s intense schedule has left no room for rest, especially after their exhausting Champions League clash against Manchester City. However, Carlo Ancelotti made five crucial changes against Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey semi-final, bringing in Andriy Lunin, Fran García, Eduardo Camavinga, Arda Güler, and Endrick. These adjustments played a decisive role in securing a 1-0 victory, giving Madrid an edge for the return leg at the Bernabéu.

Endrick, the young Brazilian forward, was the standout performer, scoring the match-winning goal and proving his value despite limited playing time. He ranks 20th in the squad for minutes played but is already the sixth-best scorer with six goals. His efficiency is unmatched, averaging a goal every 79 minutes, outperforming even Kylian Mbappé (114 minutes per goal).

Signed from Palmeiras for €35 million plus €25 million in performance-based add-ons, the 18-year-old has taken the Copa del Rey as his proving ground. He is Madrid’s top scorer in the competition with four goals, just behind Julián Álvarez (five goals). With a tight schedule ahead, Endrick is expected to start in the second leg on April 1, and if Madrid reaches the final, Ancelotti might face a tough decision between the Brazilian and Mbappé.

Lunin Proves His Worth in Goal

Andriy Lunin’s journey has been anything but easy. After playing a key role last season, the Ukrainian goalkeeper found himself back on the bench following Thibaut Courtois’ return. However, Ancelotti entrusted him with the Copa del Rey matches, and Lunin delivered.

In San Sebastián, he made six crucial saves, including a spectacular stop against Beñat Turrientes. His overall save percentage in the competition (69%) is close to Courtois’ (71%), highlighting his reliability. While the Belgian remains Madrid’s first-choice goalkeeper, Lunin’s performances make him a strong contender for the upcoming matches.

Camavinga’s Return to Form

Eduardo Camavinga, who had an inconsistent season, showed signs of returning to his best form against Real Sociedad. He completed 39 of 41 passes (95% accuracy), won four duels, and made four recoveries, proving his value in midfield.

With Dani Ceballos sidelined due to injury and Federico Valverde likely to play as a right-back in key matches, Camavinga’s role has become more critical. His physicality and versatility will be essential in Madrid’s upcoming games, and his performance in San Sebastián confirmed that he is ready for the challenge.

Madrid’s Path to the Final

With a 1-0 lead heading into the second leg at the Bernabéu, Real Madrid is in a strong position to reach the Copa del Rey final. However, the team must maintain its momentum, especially with a demanding schedule ahead. Ancelotti’s rotations have proven effective, but balancing squad depth will be key to success in multiple competitions.

Read more about the match here.