Real Sociedad vs Athletic Club: Copa del Rey Semi-Finals
Real Sociedad will face Athletic Club in a highly anticipated Copa del Rey semi-final match on March 5, 2026, at 1:30 a.m. IST at the Anoeta Stadium in San Sebastian, Spain. This clash comes after Real Sociedad secured a narrow 1-0 victory in their last encounter during the semi-finals, giving them a slight advantage heading into this decisive match.
The match will be officiated by referee César Soto Grado, who will oversee the intense rivalry between these two Basque clubs. Historically, Real Sociedad has won 61 matches against Athletic Club, while the latter has claimed victory in 68 encounters, with 45 matches ending in a draw. This long-standing rivalry adds an extra layer of excitement as both teams vie for a place in the final.
Real Sociedad’s recent form in the Copa del Rey has been commendable, having previously defeated Athletic Club 1-0 in the 2019-2020 final. They will, however, be without key players Álvaro Odriozola and Takefusa Kubo due to injuries, which could impact their strategy and performance. On the other hand, Athletic Club will also face challenges, missing Unai Eguiluz, Benat Prados, and Nico Williams due to injuries.
In terms of individual performances, Alex Remiro has been a standout for Real Sociedad, making 26 appearances in La Liga this season. Meanwhile, Oihan Sancet has contributed to Athletic Club’s campaign with two appearances in the Copa del Rey this season. Both players will be crucial in their respective teams’ efforts to secure a spot in the final.
The stakes are high as both teams aim to advance in the prestigious tournament. Athletic Club has a rich history in the Copa del Rey, with 41 finals appearances, making them one of the most successful clubs in the competition’s history. This match not only represents a chance for Real Sociedad to solidify their recent dominance but also for Athletic Club to reclaim their status as a formidable force in Spanish football.
Fans from both sides are expected to fill the Anoeta Stadium, creating an electric atmosphere that reflects the passion and rivalry inherent in Basque football. The match will be broadcast live on FanCode in India, ESPN in the USA, and RTVE in Spain, allowing supporters from around the world to witness this thrilling encounter.
As the match approaches, anticipation builds among players and fans alike. Both teams are aware of the significance of this fixture, and the outcome could have lasting implications for their seasons. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any last-minute changes to the lineups, but the excitement surrounding this match is palpable.