Real Sociedad secured their fourth Copa del Rey title, triumphing 4-3 on penalties against Atletico Madrid after a thrilling 2-2 draw. Goalkeeper Unai Marrero was instrumental, saving two crucial spot kicks in the shootout.
The match, held at the La Cartuja stadium in Seville, saw Sociedad last win the cup in 2021. This victory came before a packed stadium, unlike their previous win behind closed doors due to COVID-19.
Marrero's heroics denied Atletico's Alexander Sorloth and Julian Alvarez. Despite Atletico keeper Juan Musso saving Orri Oskarsson's penalty, Pablo Marin converted the decisive kick for Sociedad.
"This is the greatest thing I could ever dream of - winning a title with the team of my life," said a jubilant Marin.
The final echoed the 1987 encounter, which also ended 2-2 and was decided by penalties, with Sociedad again emerging victorious. This denies Atletico their first Copa del Rey since 2013.
Sociedad took an early lead through Ander Barrenetxea within 14 seconds, but Ademola Lookman equalized in the 19th minute. Mikel Oyarzabal restored Sociedad's lead from the penalty spot just before halftime. Atletico forced extra time when Alvarez scored with seven minutes remaining.
Both sides had chances in extra time, including a double save by Musso and a shot against the post by Alvarez, before the match went to penalties.
Marrero's confidence was high. "I knew that if it went to penalties, I had a lot of confidence in myself," he stated.
Sociedad manager Pellegrino Matarazzo has overseen a significant turnaround since taking over in December, lifting the club from near the relegation zone to seventh place.
Atletico Madrid now turn their focus to the Champions League semi-finals.