Endrick’s Rising Star: A Copa del Rey Statement and a Near-Miss That Left Him Wanting More
Carlo Ancelotti knew it all along. “When the time comes, Endrick will score goals.” That was his message on King’s Day when the young Brazilian striker found himself frustrated, unable to find the back of the net in a match where goals were flowing for his teammates. Now, fast forward to the Copa del Rey, and Endrick is proving his coach right, one goal at a time.
The Goal That Set the Tone
The Real Madrid prodigy stepped up on a big night, delivering an ice-cold finish that reminded everyone why Los Blancos put their faith in him. In the lion’s den of Real Sociedad, he needed just one clear chance to make his mark. A sublime assist from Jude Bellingham set him up, and Endrick’s instincts took over. With a lightning-quick touch and a lethal outside-foot strike, he put the ball past Remiro, giving Madrid the lead in the 19th minute.
“I started the play by passing to Vini, and Vini found Jude. I saw space open up, and I knew Jude would deliver because he’s one of the best in the world. The moment I was face-to-face with the keeper, I knew I had to finish,” Endrick told Real Madrid TV after the game.
His goal wasn’t just a moment of brilliance; it was a statement. The Copa del Rey has become his proving ground, a stage where he is writing his own legacy. With that goal, he now has four in the competition—two against Celta when he came off the bench to rescue Madrid in extra time, another against Leganés, and now this one against Real Sociedad. Those numbers put him level with Ferran Torres, Jaime Mata, Luis Suárez (Almería), and Andrés Barrera (Barbastro) in the tournament’s scoring charts. Just ahead of him? Julián Álvarez with five.
It’s not just about the goals; it’s about the impact. Every time Endrick takes to the pitch, he grows in confidence and ability, adapting to the high-pressure environment of Real Madrid. The way he reads the game, finds space, and capitalizes on chances speaks volumes about his potential.
A Thunderous Shot That Shook the Crossbar
Endrick wasn’t done yet. In the 51st minute, he came inches away from a second goal that would have been one for the highlight reels. A brilliant pass from Vinicius set him up, and the Brazilian wonderkid did everything right—timed his run, controlled beautifully, and unleashed a ferocious strike. The entire stadium held its breath as the ball rocketed toward goal… only to smash against the crossbar with a deafening echo.
After the match, Endrick couldn’t hide his frustration. “I watched it back, and honestly, I’m a little mad at myself. I could have done better. But that’s how I’ll improve—by missing and learning from it.”
His words resonate with every footballer who has ever been on the brink of greatness, just one shot away from perfection. It’s a reminder that legends aren’t just built on goals scored but also on the lessons learned from the ones that got away. That crossbar hit could have been another moment of brilliance, but for Endrick, it’s fuel—motivation to refine his finishing and ensure the next one finds the net.
The near-miss was a moment that Madridistas will remember. It’s these fine margins that separate the great from the legendary. With each match, Endrick is learning, evolving, and taking strides toward becoming one of the club’s key players. Every touch, every chance, every heartbreak on the field is forging his journey toward greatness.
Madrid’s Next Great No. 9?
With six goals in 25 appearances so far, Endrick is carving out his own place in Madrid’s attack. Ancelotti was clear in his assessment: “He won’t be Vinicius or Rodrygo, but he will be a great striker.” And Endrick is determined to make sure his coach is right.
The numbers don’t lie. Each goal adds weight to his claim as Madrid’s future star. His movement, awareness, and ability to capitalize on key moments are setting him apart from other young talents. If he continues on this trajectory, it won’t be long before he cements his place as a Madrid icon.
For now, his focus is on the upcoming clash against Betis and the Copa del Rey return leg. The young forward has made it clear—he wants to lift the trophy. And if he keeps this form up, he just might.
Endrick’s hunger is evident. He’s not satisfied with just being another promising talent—he wants to be the best. His dedication to improvement, his drive to score, and his resilience in the face of setbacks make him a player to watch. Every game, every goal, every chance missed or taken is another step in his journey.
Madridistas, take note: the Endrick era is coming. And when the moment calls, he will be ready.
