Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad played out a thrilling 2-2 draw in the Copa del Rey final, with Memphis Depay's late equalizer forcing extra time.
Atletico Madrid salvaged a dramatic 2-2 draw against Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey final at Estadio de la Cartuja. Memphis Depay's late strike secured extra time for the Rojiblancos after a captivating encounter.
Both sides entered the final in strong form, eyeing a prestigious domestic trophy. Atletico aimed to continue their impressive cup run. Real Sociedad sought to cap a stellar season with silverware. The atmosphere was electric for this highly anticipated clash on April 18, 2026.
The match began with high intensity, Atletico dictating the early tempo. Antoine Griezmann tested Alex Remiro with a powerful shot in the 15th minute. The home side's pressing game caused early problems for La Real's defence.
Atletico's early dominance paid off in the 22nd minute. Marcos Llorente delivered a precise cross. Griezmann guided his header past Remiro, opening the scoring. The goal ignited the Atletico faithful, putting them firmly in control.
Real Sociedad struggled to find their rhythm, but a moment of controversy changed the game. Just before halftime, a VAR review awarded La Real a penalty for a handball inside the box. Mikel Oyarzabal calmly converted in the 45+1st minute, levelling the score.
The late equalizer stunned Atletico, sending both teams into the break level. Diego Simeone's men needed to regain their composure. They had to reassert their authority in the second half. Real Sociedad, meanwhile, gained vital momentum.
The second half saw Real Sociedad grow in confidence. They started to control the midfield, pressing Atletico higher up the pitch. Substitutions were made by both managers to inject fresh energy into their respective teams.
La Real completed their turnaround in the 65th minute. Brais Méndez threaded a pass to Alexander Isak. Isak fired a low shot past Jan Oblak. The stadium erupted as Real Sociedad took a surprising lead, silencing the Atletico supporters.
Atletico pushed hard for an equalizer, introducing more attacking players. Their urgency increased as the clock ticked down. Real Sociedad defended resolutely, absorbing waves of pressure from their opponents.
The pressure finally told in the 78th minute. A scramble in the box from a corner fell to Memphis Depay. He smashed the ball home from close range. His powerful finish levelled the score, setting up a tense finish to normal time.
