Real Sociedad defeats Athletic Bilbao and advances to the Copa del Rey final

The competition in this year's edition of the Copa del Rey entered its decisive phase after an exciting semifinal in San Sebastián. Real Sociedad, playing in front of their home crowd at the Anoeta stadium, modestly but deservedly defeated their eternal rival, Athletic Bilbao. The fate of advancement was decided in the very final moments of the match when the referee awarded a penalty after a foul in the penalty area. The team's captain, Mikel Oyarzabal, stepped up to the ball and with a confident shot secured his team's ticket to the final. This victory has a special flavor, as the team from San Sebastián defeated their neighbors from Bilbao, ending the dreams of last year's champions to defend their title. Coach Imanol Alguacil praised his players' tactical discipline after the match, emphasizing that the stadium was "on fire" with fan emotions. The last time both teams, Atlético Madrid and Real Sociedad, met in the final of this competition was nearly four decades ago, giving the upcoming match the status of a generational event.In the camp of the defeated, the mood is quite different. Iñaki Williams, the offensive leader of Athletic Bilbao, did not hide his disappointment with the referee's decision to award the penalty in the 85th minute, calling it controversial given the importance of the match. This defeat means that the club from Bilbao will not repeat last season's success. Meanwhile, Real Sociedad's final opponent, Atlético Madrid, is preparing for the clash in a thankful atmosphere. Coach Diego Simeone, known for his religiosity, made a traditional visit to a Marian sanctuary, giving thanks for eliminating Barcelona. In the Spanish capital, there is also talk about Marcos Llorente, who unexpectedly suggested on social media the possibility of ending his career "sooner rather than later," sparking a wave of speculation among the fans of Los Colchoneros. The squad situation of the finalists remains dynamic. Atlético Madrid is worried about the health of Antoine Griezmann, whose participation in the final is in doubt due to muscle problems. Meanwhile, in the camp of Barcelona, which was eliminated in the semifinals, there is a search for those responsible for the injury plague. Hansi Flick publicly questioned the physical preparation methods, leading to internal tension within the club. Despite these controversies, the attention of all of Spain is now focused on Seville. The organizers have already begun the logistical process related to ticket distribution for the La Cartuja stadium. Fans of both finalists expect a fierce spectacle that will crown a new trophy winner after thirteen years of dominance by the biggest league powers. „Pitar un penalti en el 85' por ese forcejeo, en una semifinal...” (To award a penalty in the 85th minute for that tussle, in a semifinal...) — Iñaki Williams