Real Sociedad captured their fourth Copa del Rey title on April 18, 2026, defeating Atletico Madrid 4-3 on penalties after a pulsating 2-2 draw at La Cartuja stadium in Seville. The match delivered drama from the very first whistle, with Ander Barrenetxea stunning Atletico by scoring just 14 seconds into the final, one of the fastest goals in Copa del Rey final history. The Basque club's triumph marks their first Copa del Rey success in over three decades, sparking euphoric celebrations among their traveling supporters.
Ademola Lookman restored parity for Atletico Madrid in the 19th minute, becoming only the second Nigerian player ever to score in a Copa del Rey final. The equalizer shifted momentum briefly in favor of Diego Simeone's side, but Real Sociedad regained the lead before the break through captain Mikel Oyarzabal, who calmly converted a penalty in the 45th minute. Oyarzabal's composure from the spot underscored his importance to the Basque outfit in high-pressure situations.
Atletico Madrid refused to surrender, and Julian Alvarez hauled them level in the 83rd minute with a clinical finish that forced the contest into extra time. The Argentine striker's goal extended the drama at La Cartuja, and both teams exchanged chances throughout the additional 30 minutes without finding a decisive breakthrough. The tension in the stadium was palpable as the match headed inevitably toward a penalty shootout.
The shootout proved to be a showcase for Real Sociedad goalkeeper Alex Marrero, who emerged as the hero of the evening. Marrero saved penalties from Alexander Sorloth and Julian Alvarez, giving his side a decisive advantage. Atletico goalkeeper Emiliano Musso managed one save of his own, denying Alexander Oskarsson, but it was not enough to shift the balance in favor of the Madrid club.
Pablo Marin stepped up to take the winning penalty for Real Sociedad and made no mistake, sending the ball past Musso to seal a 4-3 shootout victory. The celebrations that followed were emotional and intense, with players and fans embracing on the pitch in Seville. Head coach Imanol Alguacil praised the resilience and courage of his squad, noting that the team had overcome significant adversity throughout the tournament to reach this moment.
The victory represents a historic achievement for Real Sociedad, who now hold four Copa del Rey titles in their illustrious history. For Atletico Madrid and manager Diego Simeone, the defeat adds to a frustrating pattern in cup finals, with the Argentine coach left to reflect on missed opportunities throughout the match. The result also cements Real Sociedad's status as a growing force in Spanish football, with their blend of homegrown talent and astute signings proving effective at the highest level.
Looking ahead, Real Sociedad will carry the confidence from this triumph into the final weeks of the La Liga season, where they remain in contention for European qualification. Atletico Madrid, meanwhile, will regroup and focus their attention on securing a strong league finish. The Copa del Rey final of 2026 will be remembered as one of the most dramatic in recent memory, defined by lightning-fast goals, late equalizers, and a penalty shootout that crowned Real Sociedad as worthy champions.
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