Real Sociedad Secure Copa del Rey in Record-Breaking Final

Real Sociedad have claimed their fourth Copa del Rey title following a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Atlético Madrid at the Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville. The match, which concluded 2-2 after both regulation and extra time, saw the Basque side triumph 4-3 on penalties. This victory marks a significant milestone for the club, re-establishing their prowess in Spain’s oldest domestic football competition.

A Historic Record in Seville

The final commenced with an unprecedented moment in Spanish football history. Real Sociedad forward Ander Barrenetxea scored just 14 seconds into the match, setting a new record for the fastest goal ever scored in a Copa del Rey final. This feat surpassed a 74-year-old record previously held by Manuel Badenes, who scored after 17 seconds for Valencia in the 1952 final.

Match Progression and Scoring

Despite the early setback, Diego Simeone’s Atlético Madrid side responded with resilience. Ademola Lookman equalised in the 18th minute, restoring parity to the contest. However, Real Sociedad regained the lead during first-half injury time through a goal by Mikel Oyarzabal.

The second half saw sustained pressure from Atlético, which eventually culminated in an 83rd-minute equaliser by Julián Álvarez. With the scores level at 2-2 at the end of 90 minutes, the match proceeded to 30 minutes of extra time. As neither side was able to find a winning goal during the additional period, the championship was decided by a penalty shootout.

The Decisive Shootout

Real Sociedad goalkeeper Unai Marrero proved to be the hero of the night. He denied Atlético’s first two penalty attempts, expertly saving shots from Alexander Sørloth and Julián Álvarez. Although Atlético converted their subsequent three penalties, the early advantage gained by Sociedad proved insurmountable. The shootout ended 4-3 in favour of the San Sebastián club.

Statistical History and Club Milestones

This victory represents Real Sociedad’s fourth title in the competition, following their successes in 1909, 1987, and 2020. Interestingly, their 1987 triumph mirrors this current victory; on that occasion in Zaragoza, they also defeated Atlético Madrid in a penalty shootout following a 2-2 draw.

Real Sociedad now join Real Betis as the only two clubs to have won the Copa del Rey via a penalty shootout on two separate occasions (Betis achieved this in 1977 and 2022). Established in 1903, the Copa del Rey remains the oldest active football tournament in Spain.

Real Sociedad: Copa del Rey Title History

Post-Match Reflections

Following the defeat, Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone addressed the media with characteristic bluntness. When asked if he had a message for the disappointed supporters, he remarked, “The fans don’t want messages; they want trophies.” The loss marks a missed opportunity for Atlético to add to their domestic honours, while Real Sociedad continues to cement its legacy in the historic tournament.