In one of the most anticipated Copa del Rey finals in recent years, Atlético Madrid vs Real Sociedad takes centre stage on Saturday, April 25, 2026, as the two Basque rivals meet at the neutral Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville.
Atlético Madrid, chasing their third Copa title since 2013, arrive with strong momentum after a solid La Liga campaign, while Real Sociedad aim for their first major trophy since 2020.
With Atlético unbeaten in their last five meetings against Sociedad and the Basque side boasting excellent cup form, this Atlético Madrid vs Real Sociedad final promises passion, intensity, and a memorable night of Spanish football.
Atlético Madrid vs Real Sociedad – Date, Time, Predictions, and More
The 2026 Copa del Rey Final pits Atlético’s pragmatic steel against Sociedad’s fluid attack in a high-stakes showpiece. Kickoff is on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 9:00 PM CET (3:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM PT) at Estadio de La Cartuja, Seville. USA, Canada, and Australian fans, it’s afternoon viewing—perfect for a cup final spectacle.
Team News and Analysis
Atlético Madrid enter the final in strong form, with Diego Simeone’s 4-4-2 built on defensive solidity and clinical counter-attacks. No major new injuries reported; Julián Álvarez and Alexander Sørloth lead the line, supported by Antoine Griezmann’s creativity.
The Colchoneros average 1.4 goals conceded per game in cup ties and will look to frustrate Sociedad with their trademark intensity.
Real Sociedad, under Imanol Alguacil, have shown excellent cup resilience but face questions over defensive depth.
Key players like Takefusa Kubo and Mikel Oyarzabal are expected to start, with the 4-3-3 yielding 1.8 goals per game. Press nets 12 turnovers, but zonal marking can be exposed in big matches.
Analysis: Atlético’s experience in finals vs Sociedad’s attacking flair; expect a tense, tactical battle with second-half subs decisive.
Head-to-Head Record
Atlético hold the edge with 25 wins from 52 meetings to Sociedad’s 15, plus 12 draws. The last five meetings have been tight, with Atlético winning 3.
All-time H2H (Recent)
| Stat Category | Atlético Madrid | Real Sociedad |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Wins (Recent 47) | 25 | 13 |
| Total Goals (Recent 47) | 74 | 48 |
| Goals Per Match | 1.57 | 1.02 |
| Clean Sheets | 18 | 7 |
| Draws | – | 9 |
Neutral venue: No prior final meetings.
Atlético Madrid vs Real Sociedad XI Lineups
- Atlético Madrid (4-4-2): Musso; Molina, Le Normand, Pubil, Ruggeri; Simeone, Llorente, Koke, Lookman; Alvarez, Griezmann
- Real Sociedad (4-3-3): Remiro; Aramburu, Elustondo, Zubeldia, Tierney; Zubimendi, Merino, Turrientes; Kubo, Oyarzabal, Barrenetxea.
Simeone/Alguacil briefings: Atlético Griezmann central; Sociedad Kubo right. Subs: Barrios (Atlético), Méndez (Sociedad).
Key Players
- Atlético Madrid: Antoine Griezmann – Playmaker’s vision and finishing orchestrate attacks; experience key in finals.
- Real Sociedad: Takefusa Kubo – Winger’s dribbling and creativity drive counters; threat vs Atlético’s flanks.
Match Prediction
Atlético Madrid’s defensive discipline and Griezmann’s edge secure a narrow victory in a tense Copa del Rey final, clinching the title via second-half control and set-piece quality. Sociedad threaten but falter.
- Predicted score: Atlético Madrid 2-1 Real Sociedad.
Where to watch Atletico Madrid vs Real Sociedad live stream
Watch the live stream of Atlético Madrid vs. Real Sociedad with these options for the Copa del Rey:
- USA: ESPN+; FuboTV starts at 3:00 PM ET.
- Canada: DAZN Canada 3:00 PM ET.
- Australia: beIN Sports Begins 2:00 AM AEDT (Feb 26).
- Europe: DAZN; Sky Sports; beIN Sports (Spain/France).
Here’s how that time translates across the United States:
| Date | Kickoff time | |
| Eastern Time | Sat, April 18 | 3:00 p.m. |
| Central Time | Sat, April 18 | 2:00 p.m. |
| Mountain Time | Sat, April 18 | 1:00 p.m. |
| Pacific Time | Sat, April 18 | 12:00 p.m. |
Copa del Rey winners
Here’s a look at the five most recent winners of the Copa del Rey.
| Year | Winner | Runner-up |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Barcelona | Real Madrid |
| 2024 | Athletic Bilbao | Mallorca |
| 2023 | Real Madrid | Osasuna |
| 2022 | Real Betis | Valencia |
| 2021 | Barcelona | Athletic Bilbao |