Seville, Apr 19 (V7N) — Real Sociedad have been crowned champions of the Copa del Rey after defeating Atletico Madrid in a thrilling final that ended 2-2 before being decided by penalties.

Dramatic final in Seville

The final, held in Seville on Saturday night, delivered high drama from the very beginning. Sociedad stunned Atletico just 15 seconds into the match when early pressure resulted in an opening goal.

Atletico responded in the 18th minute, with a composed finish bringing them level. However, Sociedad regained the lead before halftime through captain Mikel Oyarzabal, who converted from the penalty spot to make it 2-1.

Late comeback forces shootout

The second half saw intense back-and-forth action. With Atletico on the brink of defeat, Julián Álvarez scored a stunning long-range goal in the 83rd minute to level the match at 2-2.

Despite several chances in extra time, neither side could find a winner, sending the match into a penalty shootout.

Heroics in the shootout

In the tiebreaker, Sociedad goalkeeper Unai Marrero emerged as the hero, making crucial saves to secure a 4-3 victory for his team.

Historic triumph

With this win, Sociedad lift the Copa del Rey title for the first time in five years, marking a significant achievement for the club.

Head coach Pellegrini Matarazzo also made history, becoming the first American coach to win a major domestic cup in one of Europe’s top five leagues.

The victory caps off a memorable campaign for Sociedad, reaffirming their place among Spain’s elite clubs.

END/SMA/AJ