Real Sociedad won the Copa del Rey title after defeating Atlético Madrid 4-3 in a penalty shootout. This followed a gripping 2-2 draw after extra time.
The match kicked off at 8pm BST on April 18, 2026, at Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville. Ander Barrenetxea opened the scoring with the fastest-ever goal in a Copa del Rey final—just 14 seconds after kickoff.
Mikel Oyarzabal added another goal for Real Sociedad with a penalty in first-half stoppage time. However, Atlético Madrid fought back, leveling the score with two goals, forcing the match into penalties.
Unai Marrero played a pivotal role for Real Sociedad. He made decisive saves from Alexander Sørloth and Julián Álvarez during the shootout. Pablo Marín scored the winning penalty, sealing the victory for his team.
This triumph marks Real Sociedad’s fourth Copa del Rey title. Their last win was in 2020. Pellegrino Matarazzo made history as the first coach from the United States to win a major trophy in one of Europe’s big five leagues.
When Matarazzo took over in December, Real Sociedad was just two points above the relegation zone. His leadership has now propelled them into the upper half of the LaLiga table.
Meanwhile, Atlético Madrid’s recent form has been concerning. They lost five of their last six matches leading up to this final. Koke expressed disappointment but acknowledged their efforts: “The team did all it could to turn this around.”
Details remain unconfirmed regarding future implications for both teams following this match. The focus now shifts to how Real Sociedad will build on this success and what adjustments Atlético Madrid may need to make moving forward.
