Endrick earns depleted Real narrow Cup win at Sociedad

Real Madrid took a significant step towards the Copa del Rey final with a 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad in the first leg of their semi-final at the Reale Arena.

Carlo Ancelotti made several changes to his side, handing Vinicius Junior the captain's armband for the first time, while Arda Guler and Endrick Felipe were given rare starts. Despite a strong opening from the hosts, it was Real Madrid who struck first.

After 19 minutes, Jude Bellingham played a precise through ball to Endrick, who controlled it well before racing through on goal and finishing past Alex Remiro. The goal came against the run of play, but Madrid capitalised on their opportunity.

Real Sociedad responded with pressure, and just before half-time, Real Madrid's stand-in goalkeeper produced a brilliant save to deny Ander Barrenetxea. The second half continued in the same vein, with both goalkeepers taking centre stage.

Five minutes after the restart, Andriy Lunin made a crucial save at his near post to stop Mikel Oyarzabal before reacting quickly to keep out Takefusa Kubo's follow-up effort. Moments later, Endrick skimmed the crossbar, while in the final 10 minutes, Remiro pulled off a stunning stop to prevent Bellingham from extending Madrid's lead.

With the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu in five weeks, Real Madrid are in a commanding position to reach the final, where they will face either Barcelona or Atletico Madrid.