Real Sociedad shocked Athletic Club with a stunning 1-0 victory in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final this evening. Beñat Turrientes struck decisively in the 62nd minute to seize control of the prestigious Basque derby at San Mamés. Everything changes when Real Sociedad visits Athletic’s fortress next month.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Final Score: Athletic Club 0-1 Real Sociedad, Copa del Rey semi-final first leg
- Goal Scorer: Beñat Turrientes in the 62nd minute with a clinical finish
- Assist: Gonçalo Guedes delivered the crucial pass for the winning goal
- Next Leg: Real Sociedad hosts Athletic on March 4 at Anoeta with everything to play for
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The match at San Mamés lived up to the intensity expected from the Basque rivals. Both teams battled fiercely from kickoff, but Real Sociedad found the breakthrough when it mattered most. Goncalo Guedes latched onto the ball and squared it perfectly for Turrientes, who showed composure under pressure to slot home the decisive strike. Athletic pressed hard for an equalizer but could not break through the Real Sociedad defense in the remaining minutes.
The away victory gives Real Sociedad a crucial advantage heading into the second leg. Athletic will need to overturn the deficit or win by two clear goals in San Sebastián to reach the final. The intensity of this rivalry suggests anything remains possible in the return fixture.
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Athletic Club entered as the defending Copa del Rey champions and came into this semi-final on strong form. Hosting at their iconic San Mamés stadium, they controlled large portions of the match with Iñaki Williams leading their attacking charge. The tension was palpable throughout, with both defenses standing firm for much of the encounter. Real Sociedad’s tactical discipline proved decisive when the moment came.
Athletic’s backline faced constant pressure but managed to keep Real Sociedad at bay until that fatal 62nd minute lapse. This is only the third Copa semi-final between these Basque neighbors in history, making this tie extraordinarily significant for both regions.
Semifinal Status After Tonight
| Team | Leg 1 Result |
| Real Sociedad | 1-0 Away Victory |
| Athletic Club | 0-1 Home Defeat |
| Return Match | March 4 at Anoeta, San Sebastián |
| Finals Location | Estadio de La Cartuja, Seville |
“Goncalo Guedes squares the ball to Benat Turrientes, who makes no mistake for the opening goal at San Mames.”
— Football España, Match Commentary
What This Victory Means for Real Sociedad’s European Dream
Real Sociedad has won the Copa del Rey before, lifting it in 1909, 1987, and 2020. This run represents another genuine chance to claim the trophy again. A trip to the final guarantees entry into the 2026-27 UEFA Europa League group stage, a major prize for the ambitious Basque side. Their confidence will surge heading into March’s crucial return leg with this away advantage in their pocket.
The team showed maturity in their defensive shape and clinical edge in attack. Turrientes has now scored 2 goals in just 4 appearances this season, making him a key player to watch in the second leg. Athletic will need to score at least twice to progress without extra time.
What Happens Next in This Epic Semi-Final Battle?
Athletic’s 24 Copa del Rey titles rank them among La Liga’s most successful cup competitors, yet they must now chase the tie at Anoeta. The pressure reverses completely on March 4 when Real Sociedad defends their slender advantage. Will Athletic’s attacking firepower overwhelm a Real Sociedad side content to protect their 1-0 lead, or will the visitors spring a counterattack to seal their passage? The Basque derby intensity guarantees drama when these rivals meet again.
The final awaits at Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville, where the winner will claim Spanish cup glory and secure European football. Which Basque team will make it there?
Sources
- ESPN: Live match updates and final score verification
- Football España: Goal commentary and assist details
- Official RFEF: Copa del Rey tournament structure and dates
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.