Real Madrid edged past Real Sociedad 1-0 in a tense Copa del Rey semi-final clash, but the match was overshadowed by disturbing racist abuse directed at Vinicius Junior. While 18-year-old Endrick’s clinical strike sealed the win, a video circulating online captured a home supporter making discriminatory gestures toward the Brazilian forward during a stoppage in play. The incident casts a dark shadow over an otherwise gritty performance by Los Blancos, who now hold a narrow advantage ahead of April’s second leg.
A night marred by hate: Vinicius Junior targeted again
Midway through the first half, the game was paused briefly as chants of “Asencio die” rang out toward Madrid defender Raúl Asencio. However, the ugliest moment came later when a clip emerged showing a Real Sociedad fan mimicking monkey gestures at Vinicius Junior. This latest incident adds to a growing list of racist abuse suffered by the 23-year-old winger, who has repeatedly called out Spain’s football authorities for failing to combat discrimination.
Match Highlights: Endrick shines, Bellingham pulls strings
On the pitch, Madrid’s teenage sensation Endrick proved decisive. The Brazilian latched onto Jude Bellingham’s pinpoint diagonal pass in the 19th minute, coolly slotting home with the outside of his boot for his sixth goal of the season—four of which have come in the Copa del Rey. Bellingham, returning from suspension, orchestrated play relentlessly, while Vinicius Junior tested Sociedad keeper Álex Remiro with a sharp low drive.
At the other end, Andriy Lunin’s double save denied Mikel Oyarzabal and Takefusa Kubo, preserving Madrid’s clean sheet. Endrick nearly doubled the lead late on, rattling the crossbar with a fierce strike, but Remiro’s heroics kept Sociedad within touching distance ahead of the Bernabéu decider.
Ancelotti’s calculated gamble
With an eye on Saturday’s La Liga clash against Betis and next week’s Champions League showdown with Atlético Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti rotated heavily. Stars like Kylian Mbappé (dental issue), Thibaut Courtois, and Fede Valverde were rested, but fringe players like Arda Güler and Eduardo Camavinga stepped up. The Italian’s trust in youth and depth paid dividends, as Madrid delivered a disciplined, if unspectacular, display.
Broader Implications: Football’s Lingering Scourge
While Madrid celebrated their hard-fought win, the abuse aimed at Vinicius reignited debates about racism in Spanish football. Despite La Liga’s anti-discrimination protocols, such incidents persist, leaving players and fans disillusioned. Vinicius, often a target, has become a symbol of the fight against intolerance—a role he never asked for but continues to shoulder with resilience.
Real Madrid’s victory keeps their treble hopes alive, but the match will be remembered for all the wrong reasons. As Endrick’s star rises, Vinicius Junior’s ordeal serves as a stark reminder that football’s beauty is still too often tarnished by bigotry. For the sport to truly triumph, actions—not just gestures—must follow.