Game interrupted

“Die!” Alaba colleague substituted after attack

Raul Asencio was badly insulted.

(Bild: Miguel Oses)

Unpleasant scenes in the semi-final first leg of the Copa del Rey between Real Sociedad and Real Madrid (0:1): Raul Asencio was badly attacked by the home team's fans on Wednesday evening, Real coach Carlo Ancelotti replaced his protégé as a result.

Big commotion just before half-time! "Asencio, die", shouted numerous Real Sociedad supporters. The reason for the hostility towards Asencio was presumably the accusations against the 22-year-old, who is allegedly involved in a sex video scandal. The match was even briefly interrupted by referee Jose Maria Sanchez Martinez after the vile attacks against the Real player.

Ancelotti also reacted. The Real coach replaced Asencio at the break. "Nobody likes it when a whole stadium shouts 'die'," said the Italian after the game. "So I preferred to substitute him because his emotions could affect him."

Alaba in action in the closing stages
On a sporting note: Real Madrid secured a good starting position in the battle for a place in the Spanish Cup final. The record champions secured a 1-0 away win thanks to a goal from Endrick (19th). The return match will take place on April 1 at the Estadio Bernabeu. David Alaba was substituted for the golden goalscorer in the 72nd minute.

The final opponent will be determined in a clash between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. The first leg in Catalonia had resulted in a spectacular 4-4 draw on Tuesday.