Real Sociedad Triumphs Over Atletico Madrid on Penalties to Secure Copa del Rey

Real Sociedad secured their fourth Copa del Rey title by defeating Atlético Madrid 4-3 on penalties following a 2-2 draw after extra time. The match was held at La Cartuja stadium in Seville, with Real Sociedad’s goalkeeper Unai Marrero saving two crucial spot kicks.

The Basque side had last won the Cup in 2021, but this year’s final saw no fans due to Covid restrictions. Despite Atletico Madrid’s recent success, including reaching the Champions League semi-finals, Real Sociedad managed to outplay their rivals with goals from Ander Barrenetxea and Mikel Oyarzabal.

After a tense first half resulting in a 2-2 draw, extra time saw both teams miss chances. The decisive moment came when Atletico’s Julian Alvarez hit the post, prompting penalties. Marrero saved twice, allowing Pablo Marin to convert Real Sociedad’s winning penalty.

Under manager Pellegrino Matarazzo, Real Sociedad has shown significant improvement since taking over in December, currently sitting seventh in the league standings. Atlético Madrid, managed by Diego Simeone, will face Arsenal in the Champions League final next, with Koke stating their focus remains on that competition.