Pellegrino Matarazzo praised Real Sociedad for their remarkable journey since he took over earlier this season. His team secured a victory against Atlético Madrid in a penalty shootout to claim Spain‘s prestigious Copa del Rey, making Matarazzo the first U.S.-born coach to win a trophy in one of Europe’s top five leagues.
La Real took the lead just 14 seconds into the match in Seville with a header from Ander Barrenetxea — the fastest goal ever scored in a Copa del Rey final — before Ademola Lookman equalized for Atlético.
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Matarazzo’s side regained the lead with a penalty from Mikel Oyarzabal, but Julián Álvarez struck to bring the score to 2-2 in the 83rd minute, necessitating extra time and a penalty shootout.
Born in New Jersey, Matarazzo previously managed Stuttgart and Hoffenheim in Germany. He took the reins at Real Sociedad when they were struggling last December, and has since steered them to seventh place in LaLiga, culminating in this significant trophy.
“It’s all about the everyday work and the commitment we all have for this team, and that includes everyone involved,” Matarazzo stated at the press conference. “This has been an unbelievable journey, but I feel it’s just the beginning.”
“You visualize success, and you trust your players, but you don’t truly feel it until you see it happen. When that penalty was scored, it took me a moment to grasp it, and it was pure joy for everyone involved.”
During the final, ten players from La Real were homegrown academy talents, including key contributors in the shootout: goalkeeper Unai Marrero — who saved shots from Alexander Sørloth and Álvarez — and Pablo Marín, who scored the decisive kick.
“The identity of this club revolves around developing young talents into the first team,” Matarazzo remarked. “We have many talented individuals, leaders, and experienced players, as well as young talents like Jon [Martín] and Pablo [Marín] who are developing each week. This is a core part of our club’s history.”
“I still can’t believe it,” said Marrero, La Real’s reserve keeper, who was selected by Matarazzo for the Copa del Rey run. “This is a dream come true for me… The boss [Matarazzo] decides who plays, and I’m just grateful to represent this badge.”
Atlético Madrid will now focus on the Champions League, where they face Arsenal in the first leg of their semifinal later this month.
“The team put in everything to win this game,” said captain Koke. “It stings, but we must keep moving forward.”
“I don’t know if it was fair or not; it is what it is. We tried our best, but it just wasn’t meant to be. Now we have a great opportunity ahead. We want to win the Champions League, and we will do everything we can to achieve that. However, tonight is a somber one.”