Real Madrid vs Real Sociedad Review
Carlo Ancelotti orchestrated a win in his last match as Real Madrid’s manager, leading the La Liga runners-up to a 2-0 victory over Real Sociedad on an emotional final day of the season, paving the way for Xabi Alonso’s arrival in the capital next week. Before the match, the Bernabéu crowd honored Real Madrid’s most successful player and manager, with Luka Modrić (28 trophies) and Ancelotti (15 trophies) both set to depart the club this summer. Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappé was eager to surpass Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres for the European Golden Boot, but his first attempt of the game was thwarted by Unai Marrero.
Despite having little at stake on the final day, Sociedad was still eager to secure a top-half finish for the seventh consecutive season. However, Sergio Gómez was unable to score in a one-on-one against Andriy Lunin. Mbappé then missed a chance after being set up by the impactful Arda Güler, and Marrero made a good save against Federico Valverde’s shot. Just before halftime, Pablo Marín conceded a penalty for the visitors by shielding his face from the ball, allowing Mbappé to convert his 30th league goal of the season on the rebound after Marrero saved his initial penalty.
Other than Gómez’s early opportunity, Sociedad displayed little attacking intent, which continued after the break. Meanwhile, Mbappé aimed for another goal to put Mohamed Salah out of contention for the Golden Boot, but it didn’t come easily, partly due to Marrero’s impressive performance. However, in the 83rd minute, Marrero was finally beaten when substitute Vinícius Júnior assisted Mbappé, who scored by placing the ball inside the near post.
The closing moments resembled a celebration, featuring a guard of honor as Modrić was substituted for the last time while playing for Los Blancos. The final whistle triggered even more emotions, as Ancelotti and Lucas Vázquez bid farewell to Real Madrid. Additionally, Imanol Alguacil concluded his nearly seven-year role as Sociedad’s coach, and Mario Melero López retired after a decade of officiating in La Liga.
