As Real Sociedad gears up for the crucial Copa del Rey semi-final match against Real Madrid, they find themselves grappling with a series of injuries that could impact their defensive strategy. The first leg of the semi-final, set to take place at the Reale Arena on Wednesday, is presenting a major challenge for Head Coach Imanol Alguacil, who is faced with a defensive crisis primarily at the center-back position.
The team’s defensive line-up took a significant hit during their recent La Liga game against Leganes. Adding to their woes, key defenders Jon Pacheco and Igor Zubeldia are currently sidelined due to injuries, with the likelihood of another center back joining the injury list before the face-off against Los Blancos.
The latest defender to join the bench is Nayef Aguerd, who sustained a rectus femoris injury during the Leganes match, leading to his substitution in the first half. According to reports from AS, the Moroccan is predicted to miss the upcoming Wednesday game, a development that could force Sociedad to deploy 18-year-old Jon Martin.
Despite his tender age, Martin proved his mettle when he replaced Aguerd during the Leganes game, helping Real Sociedad maintain a clean sheet and secure a 3-0 victory, thereby elevating them to the 8th position in the standings. However, the young defender is potentially up against a formidable attacking trio in the form of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicus Jr, and Rodrygo from Real Madrid.
While Martin’s potential inclusion is one part of the equation, Alguacil also has to contend with the absence of Hamari Traore and Luka Sucic for the match against Real Madrid. This presents a tricky situation for the head coach, who is faced with tough decisions for the key first leg on home ground.
One possible solution could be the inclusion of Luken Beitia, another young player aged just 20. However, in the event of Aguerd’s unavailability, the center-back position could be filled by the duo of Jon Martin and Artiz Elustondo.
Despite the defensive crisis engulfing Real Sociedad, the team will draw inspiration from Real Madrid’s recent 2-0 triumph over Girona in La Liga, a match that reiterated Los Blancos’ dominance on the field. As they prepare for the semi-final, Real Sociedad will strategize to turn the tables on their opponents, despite the odds stacked against them.