Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman shines with crucial goal, but Atlético Madrid fall 4-3 in shootout after 2-2 thriller in Seville

Atlético Madrid’s Copa del Rey dream ended in heartbreak after a dramatic penalty shootout defeat to Real Sociedad, despite an inspired display from Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman.

In a pulsating final in Seville, both sides battled to a 2-2 draw after extra time, with Sociedad ultimately holding their nerve to seal a 4-3 victory on penalties and lift the prestigious trophy.

Sociedad struck first to set the tone, but Lookman responded in style, firing Atlético level with a composed finish that reignited his side’s hopes. The Nigerian international remained a constant threat throughout, delivering one of the standout performances of the night.

The contest lived up to its billing, with both teams trading goals in an intense encounter that stretched through regulation and extra time without a decisive winner. But the defining moment came from the spot, where Atlético faltered, missing key penalties that handed Sociedad the advantage.

While Atlético were left to rue missed chances, Lookman emerged with pride, etching his name into the history books as one of the few Nigerians to score in a Copa del Rey final — a testament to his rising influence on the European stage.

For Real Sociedad, it was a night of glory and resilience, as they secured a hard-fought victory to claim the Copa del Rey crown after a gripping and evenly matched showdown.