Reasons why Real Sociedad might be holding a grudge against Real Madrid forward | OneFootball

Real Sociedad have been waiting for an opportunity to settle scores, both with Real Madrid and quite particularly, Kylian Mbappe.

Their frustration stems from past encounters where they felt they deserved a better outcome but ended up on the losing side.

Now, as they prepare for the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final, they see this as the perfect chance to put things right.

Real Sociedad’s frustration

The wounds from previous defeats still linger in San Sebastian. Real Madrid’s last visit to the Reale Arena in La Liga left a bitter taste, as the home side believed they had the potential to secure a stronger result.

Adding to their frustration is Mbappe’s consistent ability to deliver when playing at their stadium. Whether in a Paris Saint-Germain shirt or now in Real Madrid colours, he has been a decisive force against Real Sociedad.

Kylian Mbappe has scored four goals in three matches against Real Sociedad. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

A painful memory remains fresh from last season’s Champions League round of 16, when Real Sociedad faced Paris Saint-Germain. The tie saw Mbappe at his ruthless best, scoring in both legs of the clash.

After finding the net in Paris, he returned to the Reale Arena and delivered a brace, leading PSG to a 2-1 victory. That defeat still stings, and Sociedad’s players and fans alike are eager to finally get the better of him.

Then in La Liga

Their frustration did not end there. When Mbappe signed for Real Madrid and returned to the Reale Arena last September, history repeated itself.

Real Madrid secured a 2-0 victory with goals from Vinícius and Mbappe, the latter converting from the penalty spot.

With the stakes higher than ever, Real Sociedad are determined to make this semi-final clash count.

It is not just about reaching the Copa del Rey final—it is about proving a point against a team and a player who have tormented them in the past.