Real Sociedad defeated Atletico Madrid 4-3 on penalties to win the Copa del Rey after a 2-2 draw in a dramatic final played at Estadio de La Cartuja.

The Basque side claimed their fourth Copa del Rey title following a fiercely contested encounter that went into extra time and penalties.

Sociedad made a blistering start, taking the lead after just 14 seconds through Ander Barrenetxea, marking the fastest goal in a Copa del Rey final. Ademola Lookman equalised for Atletico in the 18th minute with a strike from the edge of the box.

Mikel Oyarzabal restored Sociedad’s lead before the break from the penalty spot, but Atletico responded late in the second half as Julian Alvarez fired home a superb long-range effort in the 83rd minute to force extra time.

Both sides created chances in extra time, with Atletico pushing for a winner through Alexander Sorloth and Alvarez, while Sociedad threatened through Orri Oskarsson, but neither team could find a decisive goal.

In the shootout, Sociedad goalkeeper Unai Marrero denied Sorloth and Alvarez, while Atletico’s Juan Musso kept his side in contention with a save. However, Pablo Marin converted the decisive penalty to seal victory and spark celebrations for Sociedad.

The triumph caps a remarkable turnaround under coach Pellegrino Matarazzo, who revitalised the team after taking charge in December.

For Atletico, managed by Diego Simeone, the defeat leaves the Champions League as their remaining opportunity for silverware this season.