Real Sociedad’s Copa victory marks a milestone for Matarazzo in U.S. coaching history.
Pellegrino Matarazzo praised Real Sociedad’s “incredible journey” since he took over earlier this season after his squad triumphed over Atlético Madrid in a penalty shootout to claim Spain’s Copa del Rey, making Matarazzo the first coach born in the U.S. to secure a trophy in one of Europe’s “big five” leagues.
La Real took the lead just 14 seconds into the match in Seville on Saturday with a header from Ander Barrenetxea — marking the fastest goal ever scored in a Copa del Rey final — before Atlético equalized through Ademola Lookman.
– Sociedad stunned Atleti on penalties to capture Copa del Rey
Matarazzo’s side regained the lead with a penalty from Mikel Oyarzabal, but Julián Álvarez equalized in the 83rd minute, necessitating extra time and ultimately a penalty shootout.
New Jersey native Matarazzo — who previously managed Stuttgart and Hoffenheim in Germany — took the helm at Real Sociedad during a challenging period last December and has since elevated the team to seventh place in LaLiga, along with securing a significant trophy.
“It’s all about the daily effort and the dedication that everyone has for this team, and that includes all involved,” Matarazzo stated in his press conference. “It has been an incredible journey, but I feel it is just the beginning.
“You envision success and have faith in your players, but until you achieve it, you don’t truly feel it. With that penalty, I took a moment to absorb it, and it was pure joy for our players and staff.”
Ten players who participated for La Real in the cup final were products of the club’s academy, including two of the standout performers in the shootout, goalkeeper Unai Marrero — who saved attempts from Alexander Sørloth and Álvarez — and the player who scored the decisive penalty, Pablo Marín.
“The essence of this club is nurturing young talents into the first team,” Matarazzo remarked. “We have numerous talents, leaders, experienced players, and young talents who are developing every week, like Jon [Martín] and Pablo [Marín]. This is part of the club’s identity and history.”
“I still can’t believe it,” Marrero — La Real’s reserve goalkeeper, chosen by Matarazzo for the Copa del Rey campaign — told Movistar. “This is a dream for me … The coach [Matarazzo] decides who plays. I’m just thrilled to represent this badge.”
Atlético now shifts their focus to the Champions League, where they will meet Arsenal in the first leg of their semifinal later this month.
“The team did everything possible to win the match,” captain Koke stated. “It hurts, but we must move forward.
“I can’t say if it’s fair or not; it is what it is. Being clinical in penalties … We gave it our all, but it wasn’t meant to be. We have an exciting challenge ahead. We desire the Champions League, and we will do everything we can to achieve it. However, this is a disappointing night.”
