Ademola Lookman scores but Atlético Madrid lose Copa del Rey final on penalties

Atlético Madrid were left heartbroken in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday as they lost 4-3 on penalties to Real Sociedad after a 2-2 draw following extra time, despite a goal from Nigeria international Ademola Lookman.

The match delivered a dramatic contest from the opening moments, with Real Sociedad taking the lead after just 14 seconds through Ander Barrenetxea.

Atlético responded quickly, and Lookman brought his side level in the 19th minute, finishing calmly with a low left-footed strike inside the penalty area. The goal marked his third of the competition and his seventh across all tournaments this season.

The intensity continued before half-time, when Mikel Oyarzabal restored Real Sociedad’s advantage from the penalty spot after a foul by the Atlético goalkeeper during a set-piece situation. The Basque side held that lead until the closing stages of normal time.

With defeat looming, Atlético found a way back into the contest through Julian Alvarez, formerly of Manchester City, who equalised in the 83rd minute to force extra time.

Despite chances at both ends, neither side was able to find a winner in the additional period, sending the final to penalties.

In the shootout, Real Sociedad goalkeeper Unai Marrero emerged as the decisive figure, saving two penalties to secure his side’s fourth Copa del Rey title. His interventions proved crucial in a tense conclusion that denied Atlético Madrid silverware.

The result represents a significant setback for Atlético, who had hoped to add the domestic cup to their season objectives.

Instead, they now turn their attention to European competition, where they continue their Champions League campaign.

Diego Simeone’s side are set to face Arsenal in the semi-finals, a repeat of a previous meeting in the group stage where the Spanish club suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat.

Domestically, Atlético currently sit fourth in La Liga with 57 points from 31 matches, leaving them with work to do in both competitions.