Real Madrid’s Potential XI for Real Sociedad Clash With Vini Jr Back In – Shown in Lineup

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti faces crucial selection decisions as Los Blancos prepare to host Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey semifinal second leg. With a narrow 1-0 aggregate lead, the Italian tactician must balance squad rotation with the need to secure a finals berth in what promises to be a tense encounter at the Bernabéu.

The return of Vinícius Júnior headlines Madrid’s team news, with the Brazilian winger rested during Saturday’s 3-2 league victory over Leganés. His fresh legs and big-game pedigree make him almost certain to reclaim his starting spot, likely at the expense of Kylian Mbappé, who played the full 90 minutes in that dramatic comeback.

Ancelotti’s anticipated lineup sees several key changes from the weekend. Andriy Lunin will continue his cup duties in goal, shielded by a back four of Lucas Vázquez, Antonio Rüdiger, Raúl Asencio, and Fran García. This defensive unit offers both experience and attacking width crucial for breaking down Sociedad’s compact shape.

The midfield trio presents intriguing selection dilemmas. Aurélien Tchouaméni’s return as the defensive anchor allows Eduardo Camavinga to push forward into his preferred left-central role, while Federico Valverde’s endless engine on the right provides both defensive cover and attacking thrust. This balanced setup aims to neutralize Sociedad’s dangerous midfield trio of Brais Méndez, Martín Zubimendi, and Mikel Merino.

Further forward, Jude Bellingham retains his advanced midfield position where he’s thrived all season. The Englishman’s late runs into the box and creative passing could prove decisive against a Sociedad defense that kept him relatively quiet in the first leg. His partnership with Vinícius on the left forms Madrid’s most potent attacking combination.

The biggest surprise comes at center forward, where 18-year-old Endrick could get the nod after his match-winning goal in the first leg. The Brazilian phenom’s physicality and movement caused Sociedad problems in San Sebastián, and Ancelotti may trust him to deliver again rather than starting the out-of-form Rodrygo.

Tactically, Madrid will look to exploit Sociedad’s high defensive line with Vinícius’ blistering pace and Endrick’s clever runs. The Basques’ commitment to playing out from the back could play into Madrid’s pressing strengths, particularly with Valverde and Camavinga harassing their buildup play.

Defensive solidity remains paramount. Sociedad’s Takefusa Kubo has tormented his former club before, while Ander Barrenetxea’s direct running poses problems for Madrid’s fullbacks. Ancelotti will demand better concentration than shown in recent matches where Madrid have conceded soft goals.

The bench boasts game-changing options if needed. Mbappé, Rodrygo, and Arda Güler offer explosive attacking alternatives, while Toni Kroos’ metronomic passing could help control proceedings if Madrid protect a lead late on.

Historically, this fixture favors Madrid at the Bernabéu, where they’ve won 12 of their last 15 meetings with Sociedad across all competitions. However, Imanol Alguacil’s side famously knocked Madrid out of this competition two seasons ago and won’t surrender their final hopes easily.

With the La Liga title race heating up and Champions League commitments looming, Ancelotti must carefully manage minutes while ensuring progression. A Copa del Rey trophy would validate Madrid’s squad depth and provide a platform for their younger stars like Endrick to shine.

The projected lineup (4-3-3): Lunin; Vázquez, Rüdiger, Asencio, García; Tchouaméni, Valverde, Camavinga; Bellingham, Endrick, Vinícius Jr.

As the countdown begins, all eyes focus on whether this blend of youth and experience can deliver Madrid to their first Copa final since 2023. The stage is set for another iconic European night at the Bernabéu, where legends are made and seasons defined.