Copa del Rey: Narrow Escape

Following Real Madrid’s dramatic 4-4 draw with Real Sociedad, questions were raised about how close they had come to missing out on the Copa del Rey final. Despite trailing 1-0, 3-1, and 4-3 during the match, Antonio Rüdiger’s late equalizer in extra time secured their 5-4 aggregate win. Yet, when asked if he ever doubted the outcome, Carlo Ancelotti replied confidently, “Because anything can happen here.” Ironically, that belief may be Madrid’s biggest risk — relying too often on the unpredictable.

A Harsh Lesson in Reality: Copa del Rey

Just three days later, Madrid’s overreliance on magical moments caught up with them. Their vulnerability, previously masked by miraculous turnarounds, was exposed. The illusion of invincibility shattered as they were forced to confront their flaws — a reality check before a crucial visit to Arsenal.

Living on the Edge of the Impossible

No club has normalized the improbable quite like Real Madrid. Comebacks have become their trademark, often seen as fate or destiny. But behind the myth lies a truth: elite talent emboldens them to take risks that sometimes pay off. Yet one day, the odds will outweigh even their capabilities, and the gamble won’t work.

A Costly Slip Against Valencia

Hosting Valencia, Madrid fell behind 1-0 before Vinícius Júnior equalized early in the second half. As time ticked on, another Madrid comeback seemed inevitable. Instead, it was Hugo Duro who scored deep into stoppage time, handing Madrid a 2-1 loss and possibly costing them the league — now four points behind Barcelona with eight matches remaining. Madrid’s Copa del Rey hopes also took a hit, as the loss highlighted vulnerabilities that could affect their cup campaign as well.

Numbers That Don’t Add Up: Copa del Rey

Ancelotti was justified in saying this defeat felt different — but not necessarily unfair. Vinícius missed a penalty (Madrid’s fifth miss out of 16 this season), and Valencia’s goalkeeper Mamardashvili made six key saves. Madrid’s xG was 3.16 compared to Valencia’s 0.46, yet they still lost. That’s been the pattern lately: minimal chances for the opponents, maximum punishment for Madrid.

Defensive Concerns Beyond Rotations

There’s optimism that Madrid’s usual defensive starters will return for the Arsenal match, with only one starter from the Real Sociedad match expected to play again. However, Ferland Mendy’s absence and Tchouameni’s suspension could cause issues. And the concern runs deeper — Madrid have conceded nine goals in two Clásicos this season. Even if the lineups change, the defensive fragility remains.

Surviving by the Skin of Their Teeth: Copa del Rey

Madrid’s journey to this point has been anything but smooth. They edged Celta Vigo in extra time, needed a debut goal from Gonzalo García to beat Leganés, and required a comeback against Real Sociedad. In Europe, they scraped past Atlético on penalties and were outplayed in the group stage by Liverpool and Milan. They even needed second-half rallies to overcome Dortmund and Atalanta.

The Weight of Constant Comebacks: Copa del Rey

While Madrid’s heroic recoveries make headlines and thrill fans, they expose deeper issues: inconsistency, carelessness, and a reliance on drama. What once felt magical is now drawing criticism. Fans are growing tired of seeing urgency only when the team is trailing. Even against Real Sociedad, boos echoed around the Bernabéu, expressing frustration with a team that only starts playing when the stakes get high.

The situation is becoming more concerning as Madrid’s struggles aren’t just limited to league matches. Their Copa del Rey campaign has also been underwhelming, with moments of brilliance overshadowed by a lack of control and discipline. These patterns are putting pressure on the team, leaving supporters questioning whether the magic that once defined Madrid’s comeback spirit is beginning to fade.