Atlético de Madrid and Real Sociedad Advance to Copa de la Reina Semifinals

Atlético de Madrid and Real Sociedad Advance to Copa de la Reina Semifinals

Atlético de Madrid triumphed over Real Madrid with a 2-1 victory, while Real Sociedad orchestrated a remarkable comeback against Levante UD with a 1-2 win. These respective victories have propelled both teams into the semifinals of the Copa de la Reina.

On the second and final day of the quarterfinals, the action kicked off at the Ciudad Deportiva de Buñol. The hosts drew first blood, taking a 1-0 lead courtesy of a finely executed low left foot shot from Natasa Andonova. This goal followed a double rebound from the opposition goalkeeper during an attack by Alba Redondo.

The ‘txuri-urdin’ team, however, refused to back down. Sanni Franssi found the back of the net in the 57th minute, capitalizing on a loose ball at the top of the area. The shot deflected off Nuria Mendoza, changing the ball’s trajectory and leveling the scores. Despite Levante’s spirited attempts to regain the lead, it was Real Sociedad who struck again in the 70th minute, thus sealing their victory.

The decisive goal came from a free-kick taken by Manuela Vanegas. Her left-footed shot from a considerable distance found its mark in an unerring manner, securing a place for the San Sebastian team in the semi-finals, where FC Barcelona and Athletic Club had already secured their spots.

The final team to join this elite quartet was determined at the Wanda Alcalá de Henares Sports Center. Atlético de Madrid managed to replicate their cup victory in the derby for the second consecutive season. In the last edition of the tournament, it was Atlético and Real Madrid who battled for the title.

This time around, the event was moved forward by two rounds. Despite Madrid’s initial dominance, goals were hard to come by. Lola Gallardo made two crucial saves in the first half-hour, which seemed to galvanize the hosts. Atlético de Madrid opened the scoring with a well-taken goal by Ludmila da Silva from the penalty spot, following a superb assist from Rasheedat Ajibade.

Despite this setback, Real Madrid responded quickly. As the second half began, Linda Caicedo found the net with a well-placed shot that beat Lola Gallardo. However, Atlético de Madrid were quick to regain their lead. Eva Navarro corrected her teammate’s error by scoring the decisive goal in the 54th minute. Her left-footed shot from the edge of the area found its way into the net, securing a 2-1 victory for Atlético de Madrid.