Real Sociedad beat Atletico Madrid on penalties to win Copa del Rey

Real Sociedad defeated Atletico Madrid on penalties to secure their fourth Copa del Rey title in a pulsating final that saw both sides battle through extra time.

The Basque side made a dream start, netting the fastest goal in Copa del Rey final history just 14 seconds into the game, as Ander Barrenetxea headed home from a cross by Gonçalo Guedes.

Atletico responded quickly, with Ademola Lookman drawing them level in the 18th minute. However, Sociedad regained the lead before halftime when Mikel Oyarzabal converted from the penalty spot after a foul by goalkeeper Juan Musso.

The second half saw Atletico push forward relentlessly, and their efforts paid off when Julian Alvarez unleashed a stunning strike from outside the box to level the score once again.

With neither side able to find a winner in extra time, the match was decided by penalties. Goalkeeper Unai Marrero emerged as the hero, saving two spot-kicks to give Sociedad the edge.

The decisive moment came when Pablo Marin confidently converted the winning penalty, sealing a memorable victory and ending Sociedad’s wait for another Copa del Rey crown since 2020.

For Atletico, attention now shifts to their upcoming UEFA Champions League semi-final clash against Arsenal, as they look to bounce back from the heartbreaking defeat.