Real Sociedad Win Copa del Rey After Penalty Drama Against Atletico Madrid

Real Sociedad secured their fourth Copa del Rey title after defeating Atletico Madrid 4-3 on penalties following a 2-2 draw in a dramatic final played in Seville on Saturday.

The match burst into life almost immediately, with Ander Barrenetxea giving Real Sociedad the lead after just 14 seconds, the fastest goal ever scored in a Copa del Rey final. The Basque side capitalised on a swift attacking move, catching Atletico off guard before they had settled into the game.

Atletico responded through Ademola Lookman, who found the net with a low strike after being set up by Antoine Griezmann. The equaliser restored balance to a fast-paced contest, with both sides showing attacking intent throughout the first half.

Real Sociedad regained the advantage before the break when Mikel Oyarzabal converted from the penalty spot after Atletico goalkeeper Juan Musso fouled Goncalo Guedes in the box. The goal gave La Real a 2-1 lead heading into halftime.

After the restart, Atletico increased the pressure in search of another equaliser. Their efforts paid off when Julian Alvarez produced a composed finish, turning sharply before firing into the top corner to make it 2-2 and force extra time.

Both teams created chances during the additional period, with Atletico coming close through long-range efforts and Real Sociedad threatening on the counterattack. However, neither side could find a decisive goal, sending the match to a penalty shootout.

The shootout proved decisive, with Real Sociedad goalkeeper Unai Marrero saving attempts from Alexander Sorloth and Alvarez to give his side the advantage. Musso kept Atletico in contention by stopping one penalty, but Pablo Marin calmly converted the final kick to seal victory and spark celebrations among the Real Sociedad players.

The win marks a significant achievement for Real Sociedad, whose season had shown signs of difficulty before the arrival of coach Pellegrino Matarazzo in December. His appointment has been credited with revitalising the team and guiding them to silverware.

For Atletico Madrid and their manager Diego Simeone, the defeat represents a missed opportunity to claim a major domestic trophy. The club’s attention now turns to European competition, where they remain in contention for honours.

The final delivered an intense and entertaining contest, with both teams showcasing resilience and attacking quality, but it was Real Sociedad who ultimately held their nerve to lift the trophy.