Real Sociedad secured a spot in the Copa del Rey semi-finals with a commanding 2-0 win over CA Osasuna, bringing an end to the visitors’ four-game unbeaten streak across all competitions.
The match came just four days after Osasuna’s 2-1 victory in the league, but this time it was Imanol Alguacil’s men who emerged victorious.
Osasuna began the game with intent, creating early chances through Ante Budimir and Aimar Oroz.
Despite the promising start, it was Real Sociedad who broke the deadlock. Goalkeeper Alex Remiro launched a long punt forward, setting the stage for a brilliant team move.
Mikel Oyarzabal and Aritz Elustondo combined beautifully, with Elustondo weaving his way through the defense before unleashing a left-footed strike that flew past Sergio Herrera.
Brais Mendez soon doubled the lead after pouncing on Herrera’s misplaced clearance. Oyarzabal intercepted the pass and selflessly set up Mendez for a clinical finish, leaving Osasuna shell-shocked.
The situation went from bad to worse for Vicente Moreno’s side when Alejandro Catena received a straight red card for a reckless kung-fu-style challenge on Mendez, having initially been shown a yellow.
Budimir nearly reduced the deficit with a spectacular long-range volley that narrowly missed the target as half-time loomed.
Osasuna needed a spark to reignite their hopes, but it was the hosts who continued to threaten.
Nayef Aguerd came close to connecting with a Takefusa Kubo corner, while Herrera was forced into a smart save to deny Mendez.
Budimir remained Osasuna’s most dangerous player, but his header from Bryan Zaragoza’s cross was comfortably saved by Remiro.
Content with their two-goal cushion, Real Sociedad controlled possession and managed the game well, while Osasuna struggled to find the cutting edge needed to stage a late comeback.
In the end, Real Sociedad’s first-half dominance proved decisive, securing only their second victory in six outings and a coveted spot in the last four.
Meanwhile, Osasuna’s dreams of lifting their first-ever Copa del Rey title will have to wait another year after this underwhelming performance despite their strong start.
