Atlético Madrid, led by Argentine coach Diego Simeone, fell short in the Copa del Rey final after losing on penalties to Real Sociedad following a 2-2 draw over 120 minutes.
The match began with an early setback, as Atlético conceded within the opening seconds and were forced to chase the game from the start. Despite the difficult beginning, they managed to respond and stay within reach throughout the match.
The key Argentine on the pitch was Julián Álvarez. With Atlético trailing late in the second half, Álvarez produced a decisive moment in the 83rd minute, scoring to make it 2-2 and send the final into extra time.
Neither team managed to find a winner in extra time, sending the match to penalties. Álvarez stepped up in the shootout, but his effort was saved as Atlético went on to lose 4-3.
After the match, Diego Simeone reflected on the performance and the outcome. “I think we competed very well and gave everything we had,” he said.
The Argentine coach also pointed to the fine margins that decided the match, stating that “the penalties went their way,” while adding that “the efficiency that is needed, this time they had it.”
Simeone also addressed the moment after the final whistle, explaining that it was not a time for long speeches but rather support: “It was just about being close to them.”
