Real Madrid Secures Copa del Rey Semifinal Spot in Dramatic Fashion
At the last moment—almost at the sound of the final whistle—Real Madrid secured their place in the Copa del Rey semifinals with a thrilling 2-3 victory over Leganés. A stoppage-time goal from 20-year-old Gonzalo García sealed the win, just when the match seemed to be slipping out of Madrid’s control. Despite taking an early 0-2 lead within the first 30 minutes, the game turned unexpectedly challenging for the visitors.
A Valiant Effort from Leganés
Leganés exited the competition with their heads held high, putting up a commendable fight and nearly pulling off a major upset. With the match being a single-elimination fixture, Carlo Ancelotti took some risks with his lineup, opting to rest key players. Some, like Mbappé and Bellingham, were left out entirely, while others, such as Vinicius and Ceballos, started on the bench. Additionally, defensive absences forced Ancelotti to field an unusual backline, with Fede Valverde playing as a right-back and two academy players, Jacobo Ramón and Raúl Asencio, in central defense.
Despite these adjustments, Madrid managed to withstand the early pressure from Leganés. The home side started with promise, with Diego García coming close, but soon fell under Madrid’s control. Brahim and Rodrygo, particularly effective in attack, created Madrid’s first breakthrough. In the 17th minute, Rodrygo set up Luka Modric, who, with an off-balance shot, found the net for the opening goal.
Leganés attempted to respond but lacked precision in front of goal. Meanwhile, Madrid doubled their lead in the 25th minute when Endrick capitalized on a loose ball inside the box. At that point, the game appeared to be comfortably in Madrid’s hands—until Leganés found a lifeline. A clear handball by Jacobo Ramón in the penalty area allowed Juan Cruz to convert from the spot in the 39th minute, reducing the deficit to 1-2 before halftime. With just one goal separating them, Leganés left the field believing in a possible comeback.
A Second-Half Revival and Last-Minute Drama
The belief turned into reality in the second half. Ancelotti’s decision to substitute Rodrygo—Madrid’s best player up to that point—for Vinicius did not pay off. Instead of maintaining a cohesive attack, Madrid became overly reliant on Vinicius, who struggled to make an impact.
Sensing an opportunity, Leganés pressed forward and leveled the score. Their standout performer, Juan Cruz, completed a well-worked team move by slotting home the equalizer, sending the home crowd into raptures.
Madrid, stunned, failed to respond effectively. Brahim came close to restoring the lead with a powerful shot that hit the crossbar, but the game remained tied as the clock ticked down. Just when extra time seemed inevitable, Madrid’s academy talent made the difference. Introduced in the 80th minute, Gonzalo García rose highest in the box to head the ball past the goalkeeper in stoppage time, securing a dramatic victory and sending Madrid into the Copa del Rey semifinals.
