Real Sociedad secured a dramatic Copa del Rey triumph on Saturday, defeating Atlético Madrid 4-3 on penalties after a thrilling 2-2 draw in Seville.
The victory caps a remarkable turnaround under head coach Pellegrino Matarazzo, who took charge in December with the club hovering just above the relegation zone. Four months later, Sociedad not only lifted the trophy but also climbed into the upper half of the La Liga standings.
Goalkeeper Unai Marrero emerged as the hero in the shootout, saving penalty attempts from Alexander Sørloth and Julián Álvarez. Pablo Marín then converted the decisive spot-kick to seal the title.
Sociedad made a blistering start, taking the lead just 14 seconds into the match through Ander Barrenetxea, marking the fastest goal ever recorded in a Copa del Rey final.
Atlético responded in the 19th minute when Ademola Lookman found the net, continuing his impressive run since joining the club. Sociedad regained the advantage before halftime after Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty following a foul by goalkeeper Juan Musso.
Late drama unfolded as Álvarez struck in the 83rd minute to force extra time. Despite several chances for Atlético, neither side could find a winner, sending the match into penalties.
Marrero’s decisive saves ultimately proved the difference, delivering Sociedad their Copa del Rey title and completing one of the most impressive mid-season revivals in recent Spanish football history.
Matarazzo’s impact has been immediate and transformative, turning a struggling side into cup champions in just a few months, a feat that is likely to elevate his reputation across European football.
