Real Sociedad claimed their fourth Copa del Rey title after defeating Atletico Madrid 4–3 on penalties following a thrilling 2–2 draw in Saturday’s final in Seville.
Pablo Marin converted the decisive spot-kick after Alexander Sorloth and Julian Alvarez missed for Atletico, sealing victory for the Basque side.
Sociedad made a sensational start, taking the lead after just 14 seconds — the fastest goal in a Copa del Rey final — when Ander Barrenetxea headed home from Goncalo Guedes’s cross.
Atletico responded through Ademola Lookman, who drilled a low finish into the corner after a layoff from Antoine Griezmann.
Sociedad regained the lead before the break when Mikel Oyarzabal converted from the penalty spot after goalkeeper Juan Musso fouled Guedes.
Atletico fight back
After a subdued first half, Atletico improved significantly following the restart, dominating possession and pushing for an equaliser.
Their persistence paid off when Alvarez produced a moment of brilliance, controlling the ball on the edge of the box before firing into the top corner to level the score and force extra time.
Both sides had chances to win it late. Johnny Cardoso missed a golden opportunity for Atletico in stoppage time, while Sociedad’s Unai Marrero made crucial saves to keep his side in the contest.
Penalty drama
The match was ultimately decided in a tense shootout. Marrero denied both Sorloth and Alvarez, putting Sociedad in control.
Although Musso saved one penalty, Marin calmly converted the decisive kick to spark jubilant celebrations for Sociedad.
Sociedad’s triumph marks a remarkable turnaround under coach Pellegrino Matarazzo, who revitalised the team after his appointment in December.
For Atletico and manager Diego Simeone, the defeat represents another missed opportunity for silverware this season, with their remaining hopes now resting on the UEFA Champions League.
AFP
