AFCON 2025
In an entertaining Copa del Rey final at the Estadio de La Cartuja, Real Sociedad lifted their fourth title in the competition’s history after a thrilling 2-2 draw with Atlético Madrid, prevailing 4-3 in a nerve-shredding penalty shootout.
The Basque side stunned the favorites with a lightning start, as Ander Barrenetxea fired them ahead inside the first minute, capitalizing on a swift counter and precise assist from Gonçalo Guedes. Atlético, chasing their 11th Copa del Rey crown, responded strongly when Ademola Lookman leveled in the 18th minute with a composed finish assisted by Antoine Griezmann.
Just before halftime, however, Real Sociedad regained the lead from the penalty spot. Mikel Oyarzabal, the experienced captain, converted coolly after a foul in the box, giving Sociedad 2-1 advantage at the break.
The second half belonged to Atlético’s resilience. Julián Álvarez, who had been a constant threat, equalized in the 83rd minute with a clinical strike set up by Thiago Almada, forcing the match into extra time. Both teams pushed hard in the additional 30 minutes, but neither could find a winner, sending the final to penalties.
In the shootout, Real Sociedad held their calm. While Atlético missed two kicks including one from Alexander Sørloth and Alvarez. Sociedad converted four out of five, with Pablo Marín slotting home the decisive penalty. Goalkeeper Unai Marrero emerged as a hero with key saves, denying Atlético the trophy in what proved to be a masterclass in composure under pressure.
For Diego Simeone’s men, it was a sad end to a campaign that saw them battle through a tough semi-final against Barcelona. Real Sociedad, under their management, celebrated a deserved triumph built on clinical finishing, defensive organization, and mental strength when it mattered most.
While it was a deserved victory for Real Sociedad, here are three possible reasons why Atletico lost.
1. Slow Start and Early Defensive Lapse
Atlético were caught cold in the opening minute, allowing Barrenetxea to score before they could settle. This forced them into chase mode throughout the first half and disrupted their usual compact, counter-attacking rhythm.
Starting and controlling the game early in the final is very important, but instead, Atletico were made to chase the game throughout the match.
2. Inefficiency in the Penalty Shootout
Despite forcing extra time, Atlético faltered when it came to the decisive kicks. Missing two penalties showed a lack of composure or preparation compared to Sociedad’s clinical execution.
During the penalty shootout, it was Atletico Madrid game to win, especially with their squad depth and experienced penalty takers, but their inefficiency stopped them from a night of glory
3. Inability to Capitalize on Dominance and Set-Piece Opportunities
Going into the game, Atletico Madrid boosted their quality, and were in very good form. Eliminated Barcelona in the Semi Finals, their path to the final was one to respect.
Atlético showed signs of quality particularly through Lookman, Álvarez, and Griezmann and created chances, especially after equalizing.
However, they failed to convert periods of territorial control or clear opportunities into a winning goal. Sociedad’s organized defense and goalkeeper Marrero’s heroics frustrated their attacks, while Atlético’s wastefulness in key moments prevented them from seizing control of the contest.
