Real Madrid travel to the Reale Arena for the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final against a formidable Real Sociedad side. With the hosts boasting a formidable home record and Madrid eyeing another step towards a potential quadruple, this promises to be an intriguing tactical battle. Our expert at BettingTips4You has analysed the key factors shaping this match and identified the best value bet for today’s action.
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Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid – Real Sociedad/Draw Double Chance
John Pentin; Sports journalist at BettingTips4You
USA to Win to Nil | |
6/4 - odds when tipped |  |
Reasoning Costa Rica enter this clash depleted and lacking offensive depth, while the USA are thriving at home with a balanced and disciplined squad. The Ticos have failed to score in four previous Gold Cup knockouts against the US, and the hosts’ superior structure should deliver another clean-sheet win.
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Rationale:
Key Stats:
- Real Sociedad have won 11 of their last 13 home games, making them a tough side to break down in San Sebastián.
- Real Madrid have drawn four of their last ten away matches, showing occasional difficulties on the road.
- These sides last met in the Copa del Rey in 2020, when Sociedad shocked Madrid with a 4-3 win at the Bernabéu.
Rationale
Real Madrid’s visit to the Reale Arena presents a difficult challenge, as Real Sociedad have been one of Spain’s strongest home teams this season. The Basque outfit have made their stadium a fortress, winning 11 of their last 13 games on home soil, and they will be determined to take a positive result into the second leg at the Bernabéu.
While Madrid possess world-class attacking talent in Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, and Rodrygo, they have not always been convincing in away fixtures. Four draws in their last ten road trips indicate that they can be frustrated by well-organised opponents. Sociedad’s disciplined defensive structure, combined with their ability to control possession through midfielders like Mikel Merino and Take Kubo, makes them well-equipped to contain Los Blancos.
However, Sociedad’s biggest concern is their injury-hit defence, with key absentees potentially forcing manager Imanol Alguacil to field a less experienced backline. This could allow Madrid to create chances, but if Sociedad remain compact and disciplined, they have every chance of securing at least a draw. Given their outstanding home record and Madrid’s occasional away struggles, backing Sociedad to avoid defeat offers strong value.
Best bet – Real Sociedad/Draw Double Chance
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