Real Sociedad beat Atlético on penalties to win Copa del Rey

Real Sociedad claimed Copa del Rey glory after defeating Atlético Madrid 4-3 on penalties following a dramatic 2-2 draw at La Cartuja in Seville.

The night belonged to unlikely heroes, as backup goalkeeper Unai Marrero delivered a match-winning performance in the shootout to secure only the club’s fourth Copa del Rey title.

Real Sociedad stunned Atlético almost instantly.

Ander Barrenetxea opened the scoring just seconds into the match, one of the fastest goals in Copa del Rey final history, capitalising on defensive hesitation to give La Real a dream start.

Atlético respond but Sociedad regain control

Atlético hit back through Ademola Lookman after clever play involving Julián Álvarez and Antoine Griezmann.

However, just before half-time, Real Sociedad regained the lead. Captain Mikel Oyarzabal calmly converted from the penalty spot, continuing his remarkable record of scoring in cup finals.

Atlético dominated possession in the second half but struggled to break through until Álvarez struck late to make it 2-2 and force extra time.

Despite the tension, neither side could find a winner, sending the final to penalties.

Marrero the hero in the shootout

The spotlight then turned to Marrero.

The 24-year-old goalkeeper saved penalties from Álvarez and Alexander Sørloth, putting Real Sociedad within touching distance of glory.

Up stepped Pablo Marín, once a ballboy at the club, who converted the decisive kick to seal a historic triumph.

This victory carries special meaning for Real Sociedad:

• First Copa del Rey win in front of fans in 38 years
• Fourth title in club history
• Redemption after their 2021 triumph was played behind closed doors

Under Pellegrino Matarazzo, who took over just months ago, the club has completed a remarkable turnaround from relegation fears to cup winners.

Match Summary

Atlético Madrid 2-2 Real Sociedad (AET, 3-4 pens)

• Barrenetxea 1’
• Lookman 19’
• Oyarzabal (pen) 45+1’
• Álvarez 83’

SportsLigue