The head coach of Spanish Real Sociedad, Imanol Alguacil, stated that in one of the key episodes of the second semifinal match of the Copa del Rey, the referees made a mistake in favor of Real (4:4).
“We are upset. Nobody gave us a chance, but our team showed that it has skill, fighting spirit, and the individual mastery of the players. We did everything to reach the final. The team performed in the semifinal well above the expectations of many.
In the episode before the corner from which “Real” scored the third goal, there was an offside. Usually, in such situations, offside is called, but it’s better not to talk about it. We were knocked out of the tournament through a matter that should be neutral. Madrid is a big team and doesn’t need help. I am absolutely sure that this goal would not have been counted if it had happened in another penalty area.
I am sad and hurt because we gave our all to move on. I am very proud of this team. Historical evenings are remembered if you reach the final, but this one will stay deeply in my heart,” quotes Alguacil from Mundodeportivo.