Real Sociedad triumphed in a tense final that saw Atletico Madrid twice fight back to force extra time and eventually penalties. Goalkeeper Unai Marrero emerged as the hero, saving two spot-kicks to deliver Sociedad their first major trophy since 2020.
The Basque side made a sensational start, scoring the fastest goal in Copa del Rey final history. Just 14 seconds in, Ander Barrenetxea headed home a precise cross from Gonçalo Guedes to stun Diego Simeone’s team.
Atletico responded quickly, leveling the match in the 18th minute through Ademola Lookman, who calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner. However, Sociedad regained the lead just before halftime when Mikel Oyarzabal converted from the penalty spot after goalkeeper Juan Musso fouled Guedes while attempting to punch the ball clear.
The second half saw Atletico dominate attacking play, and their persistence paid off when Julian Alvarez unleashed a powerful strike from the edge of the box into the top corner.
Neither side managed to find a winner during a tiring extra-time period, sending the match to penalties. Sociedad held their composure in the shootout, sealing victory when Pablo Marin fired the decisive kick into the roof of the net.
For Atletico Madrid, currently fourth in La Liga and trailing leaders Barcelona by 22 points, focus now shifts to the Champions League, where they are set to face Arsenal in the semi-finals, with the first leg scheduled for April 29.
