Unai Marrero's double penalty save seals Real Sociedad's fourth Copa del Rey win over Atletico Madrid

Real Sociedad last lifted the trophy in 2021, when the delayed 2020 final was played in an empty La Cartuja stadium. This year the Basque side's fans filled the stands in Seville, watching their team overcome a 2-2 draw after extra time. The last time the two clubs met in a final was 1987, also settled by penalties in Sociedad's favor.

Unai Marrero denied Alexander Sorloth and Julian Alvarez from the spot, giving Sociedad the early edge in the shootout. After Atletico's Juan Musso stopped Orri Oskarsson's attempt, Pablo Marin stepped up and scored the winning penalty, describing the moment as "calm and serene" and the greatest dream of his life. The match ended 2-2 after extra time, with Ander Barrenetxea's early header, Ademola Lookman's equalizer, Mikel Oyarzabal's halftime penalty, and Alvarez's late goal forcing the shootout.

The victory marks Sociedad's fourth Copa del Rey crown and underscores the impact of American head coach Pellegrino Matarazzo, who took over in December and has guided the club from relegation danger to seventh in La Liga while delivering silverware. For Atletico, the loss ends their hunt for a first Copa del Rey since 2013, but they remain focused on a Champions League semifinal against Arsenal. Sociedad will look to build on this momentum to secure a European league spot for next season. Watch for Atletico’s Champions League clash with Arsenal and Sociedad’s push for a UEFA competition place in the final La Liga matches.