Real Sociedad Beat Atlético Madrid on Penalties to Win Copa del Rey

Real Sociedad were crowned Copa del Rey champions after edging past Atlético Madrid on penalties following a dramatic 2-2 draw after extra time at La Cartuja Stadium in Seville.

In a final that delivered intensity from the opening moments, Real Sociedad struck almost immediately, taking the lead inside the opening seconds through Ander Barrenetxea.

Atlético responded swiftly, with Ademola Lookman restoring parity before the contest continued to swing between both sides.

Mikel Oyarzabal then converted from the penalty spot to put Sociedad back in front before the break, only for Julián Álvarez to level late in the second half and force extra time.

Despite both teams pushing for a decisive goal in the additional 30 minutes, neither side could find a breakthrough, sending the final to a penalty shootout.

Real Sociedad held their composure from the spot, ultimately prevailing 4-3, with goalkeeper Álex Remiro emerging as a key figure after crucial saves, while the winning penalty sealed a historic triumph for the Basque side.

The result sees Real Sociedad lift the Copa del Rey title for the 2025–26 season, underlining their resilience in high-pressure moments and their progression throughout the competition.

For Atlético Madrid, the defeat marks a narrow miss in their pursuit of domestic silverware, despite a strong showing across the final.

The victory also secures Real Sociedad a place in next season’s European competition, further reinforcing the significance of their cup success in the broader context of their campaign.