Real Sociedad – Athletic Club: Structural Control and Late Drama Send La Real to the Final (1-0)

Real Sociedad secured their place in the Copa del Rey final with a narrow but deserved victory over Athletic Club at Anoeta. In a derby defined more by structure, duels, and tactical intentions than by clear chances, a late penalty from Mikel Oyarzabal ultimately sealed La Real’s progression.

Tactical analysis and match report by Sebastián Parreño.

The match unfolded as a highly intense and duel-heavy contest, with both teams showing aggressive defensive behaviors and little tolerance for prolonged possession from the opponent. Each side attempted to jump on receivers immediately, forcing rapid decision-making and reducing the possibility of comfortable ball circulation. The result was a first half largely devoid of clear chances but filled with physical confrontations and tactical discipline.

Athletic Club defended primarily in a 4-4-2 shape without the ball. Their back line consisted of Vivian on the right, Paredes and Laporte as central defenders, and Yuri Berchiche on the left. In midfield, Rego and Jauregizar operated centrally, with Iñaki Williams on the right flank and Sancet on the left, while Berenguer partnered Guruzeta in attack.

However, their pressing behavior was more complex than the base shape suggested. Athletic frequently initiated pressure in a 4-2-3-1 structure, but as the play developed they transformed their pressing scheme. Sancet would step forward to press the left center-back, while the two pivots advanced aggressively to mark Real Sociedad’s double pivot in a one-versus-one fashion. At the same time, the defensive line followed attackers tightly: Paredes tracked Oyarzabal, Berchiche followed Guedes, Laporte marked Soler, and Vivian tracked Barrenetxea.

Real Sociedad mirrored the intensity . . .