Ademola Lookman etched his name into history by becoming only the second Nigerian to score in a Copa del Rey final, but his effort was not enough to secure victory as Atlético Madrid lost 4–3 on penalties to Real Sociedad after a 2–2 draw at the Estadio La Cartuja.

The Nigerian forward found the net in the 18th minute, cancelling out an early opener from Ander Barrenetxea, who had put Sociedad ahead just 14 seconds into the game. Lookman calmly slotted home after being set up by Antoine Griezmann to restore parity.

Despite the equaliser, Atlético went into halftime trailing after Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty in stoppage time following a foul by Juan Musso.

With his goal, Lookman joined Finidi George as the only Nigerians to score in a Copa del Rey final, matching the feat achieved by the former winger in 1997. However, like Finidi, he ended up on the losing side.

Lookman delivered a lively performance, recording one goal from three shots, one key pass, and 31 touches. He also completed 11 of his 13 passes with an 85 per cent accuracy rate, while successfully executing three dribbles and winning five of his 10 ground duels.

Atlético intensified their push after the break, with Lookman playing a key role in their attacking efforts. Their persistence paid off late in regulation time when Julián Álvarez struck to level the score at 2–2, forcing the match into extra time.

Both teams created chances during the additional period, including an effort from Álvarez that hit the crossbar, but neither side could find a winner.

In the penalty shootout, Atlético faltered as Álvarez and Alexander Sørloth both had their attempts saved by goalkeeper Unai Marrero. Sociedad converted their chances, with Pablo Marín scoring the decisive penalty to seal victory.

The defeat means Lookman could not match Emmanuel Amuneke, who remains the only Nigerian to have won the Copa del Rey, having lifted the trophy with Barcelona in 1997.

Despite the result, Lookman’s goal adds to an impressive season, with the forward now recording seven goals in 18 appearances across all competitions.