Real Sociedad Wins Copa del Rey 4-3 on Penalties vs Atletico

SEVILLE, Spain — Real Sociedad claimed their fourth Copa del Rey title on Saturday, defeating Atlético Madrid 4-3 in a penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw through extra time at La Cartuja Stadium.

The Basque club, managed by American coach Pellegrino Matarazzo, seized an early advantage when Ander Barrenetxea headed home Gonçalo Guedes' cross after just 14 seconds, marking the fastest goal in the history of Spanish cup finals. Atlético responded swiftly, with Ademola Lookman equalizing in the 19th minute via a low left-footed strike from a pass by Antoine Griezmann. Real Sociedad regained the lead on the stroke of halftime, as Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty after Atlético goalkeeper Juan Musso fouled Guedes in the area.

The second half saw Atlético dominate possession and create numerous chances, but they only leveled the score in the 83rd minute when Julián Álvarez fired a precise shot into the top corner from inside the box. Late opportunities went begging for the visitors, including misses by Alex Baena and Johnny Cardoso from close range, forcing the match into extra time. Both goalkeepers shone in the additional period: Musso denied Carlos Soler and Orri Oskarsson with...