Real Sociedad Stun Atletico Madrid in Penalty Shootout to Claim Fourth Copa del Rey Title

Posted : 19 April 2026

Real Sociedad captured their fourth Copa del Rey title in dramatic fashion on Saturday night, defeating Atletico Madrid 4-3 in a penalty shootout. The final at the La Cartuja stadium in Seville ended 2-2 after 120 minutes of high-intensity football. Goalkeeper Unai Marrero emerged as the match winner by saving two crucial spot-kicks during the shootout. This victory marks a historic achievement for the Basque side, repeating their 1987 final success over the same opponents.

The match began with a stunning opener as Ander Barrenetxea headed Real Sociedad into the lead just 14 seconds after kickoff. Atletico Madrid responded in the 19th minute when Ademola Lookman clinicaly finished a pass from Antoine Griezmann. Real Sociedad regained the lead just before halftime through a Mikel Oyarzabal penalty after Juan Musso fouled Goncalo Guedes. Atletico pushed late in the second half and found an equalizer through Julian Alvarez in the 83rd minute to force extra time.

Extra time remained goalless despite heavy pressure from both sides and a double-save from Musso to keep Atletico alive. In the shootout, Marrero denied efforts from Alexander Sorloth and Julian Alvarez to put the Basque side in control. Although Musso stopped one Sociedad attempt, young midfielder Pablo Marin stayed composed to slot home the winning penalty. Marin later described the moment as a childhood dream come true for a lifelong club supporter.

The triumph highlights a remarkable coaching turnaround by American manager Pellegrino Matarazzo since his arrival in December. Matarazzo took over a side struggling near the relegation zone and has guided them to seventh in La Liga alongside this cup success. For Atletico Madrid, the defeat ends their hopes of a domestic trophy this season. Diego Simeone’s men must now shift their focus entirely to their upcoming Champions League semifinal clash against Arsenal.

Real Sociedad's victory was celebrated by thousands of fans who were finally able to witness a trophy lift in person. Their previous win in 2021 took place behind closed doors due to pandemic restrictions. Captain Oyarzabal praised the resilience of the squad, noting the unique feeling of winning titles for the club. The team returns to San Sebastian as heroes, having reinforced their status as one of Spain’s elite knockout competitors.

Real Sociedad Stun Atletico Madrid in Penalty Shootout to Claim Fourth Copa del Rey Title

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