Real Sociedad Triumph Over Atlético de Madrid in Copa del Rey Final

The Copa del Rey final between Atlético de Madrid and Real Sociedad ended in disappointment for the Madrid side as they lost 1-0 in extra time, extending a painful run of near-misses for Antoine Griezmann and reigniting scrutiny over the club’s inability to secure silverware in high-stakes matches.

The decisive goal came in the 115th minute when Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty after Robin Le Normand was adjudged to have handled the ball inside the box. The incident followed a prolonged period of pressure from Real Sociedad, who had created several chances throughout the match but were denied by Atlético’s resilient defense and the goalkeeping of Jan Oblak.

For Griezmann, the loss marked another heartbreaking final defeat in his return to Atlético de Madrid. Having come back to the club in 2021 with high expectations, the French forward has now lost four major finals with the team — two UEFA Champions League semifinals appearances, a La Liga title decider in 2020–21, and now this Copa del Rey final — without lifting a trophy.

Oyarzabal’s Penalty Seals Victory for Real Sociedad

Real Sociedad began the final with intent, pressing high and looking to exploit spaces behind Atlético’s wing-backs. Their patience paid off in the second half of extra time when a cross from the left struck Le Normand’s arm as he jumped to clear. Referee Jesús Gil Manzano pointed to the spot after a VAR review confirmed the handball, despite Atlético’s protests that the contact was accidental.

Oyarzabal, who had already scored in the semifinal against Mallorca, stepped up and sent Oblak the wrong way to seal the victory. It was his second goal in the competition’s knockout stages and capped a strong individual performance, during which he consistently threatened Atlético’s backline with his movement and link-up play.

Atlético’s Missed Chances and Tactical Frustration

Atlético de Madrid dominated large spells of the match, particularly in the first half, where they controlled 62% of possession and created three clear-cut chances. Julián Álvarez came closest in the 38th minute, heading a corner kick just wide of the post, while Rodrigo De Paul tested Remiro with a long-range effort in the 52nd minute that forced a save.

Griezmann’s Recurring Final Heartbreak

Real Sociedad Claims First Major Trophy Since 1987

What Comes Next for Both Sides

For Atlético de Madrid, the focus now shifts to salvaging their La Liga campaign, where they currently sit third in the table, four points behind leaders Barcelona and level on points with second-placed Real Madrid. With the Copa del Rey out of reach, securing a Champions League qualification spot becomes paramount.

Real Sociedad, buoyed by the cup triumph, will look to carry momentum into the final stretch of the league season. Currently sixth in La Liga, they remain in contention for a Europa League spot, with the possibility of Champions League qualification still mathematically alive though unlikely without a strong finish.