Real Sociedad defeated Atletico Madrid 4-3 on penalties to win the Copa del Rey for the fourth time in their history after a thrilling 2-2 draw in Saturday’s final in Seville.
The Basque side held their nerve in the shootout after misses from Alexander Sorloth and Julian Alvarez handed them the advantage, before Pablo Marin converted the decisive spot-kick to seal victory.
Real Sociedad made a dream start to the encounter, taking the lead just 14 seconds in as Ander Barrenetxea headed home to stun Atletico early on.
Atletico responded through Ademola Lookman, who restored parity, but Mikel Oyarzabal put Sociedad back in front from the penalty spot before the break.
The penalty was awarded after Atletico goalkeeper Juan Musso brought down Gonçalo Guedes with a clumsy challenge while attempting to deal with an aerial ball. Oyarzabal made no mistake, sending Musso the wrong way.
Julian Alvarez, however, came to Atletico’s rescue with a moment of brilliance, forcing the game into extra time. The Argentine forward showed great composure, controlling the ball on the edge of the box before firing into the top corner for his 19th goal of the season.
Neither side could find a winner during extra time, sending the final into a tense penalty shootout where Sociedad ultimately prevailed.
The defeat leaves Atletico Madrid still searching for silverware this season, with their remaining hope resting on the Champions League, where they are set to face Arsenal in the semi-finals.
