Atlético Madrid and Real Sociedad will play in the Copa del Rey final. Simeone's men held out at the Camp Nou against a superb Barcelona side, who were one goal away from levelling the tie and forcing extra time. The great game played by the Rojiblancos at the Metropolitano was enough to take them back to a cup final 14 years later.

It took less time for Real Sociedad, who already won the 2020 edition in the final played in 2021. But it was without an audience, so the Basque team returns to a final after losing in 1988 to Barcelona. In the derby against Athletic, Matarazzo's team was once again the better side and deservedly secured their place in the final.

Copa del Rey semi-final results

• Atlético de Madrid 4-0 Barcelona
• Athletic 0-1 Real Sociedad
• Barcelona 3-0 Atlético de Madrid
• Real Sociedad 1-0 Athletic

Rehearsal for the final

In a twist of fate, the two teams face each other this Saturday at the Metropolitano in the EA Sports La Liga matchday 27 fixture. In addition, Matarazzo's debut on the Real Sociedad bench took place at Anoeta against Atlético Madrid. So, when they meet on 18 April in Seville, they will know each other perfectly.

But this weekend's league clash between the two is not the only notable precedent. Real Sociedad's last Copa del Rey title in front of a crowd was, precisely, against Atlético Madrid. That final was played at La Romareda stadium in Zaragoza, ended in a 2-2 draw, and Real Sociedad, captained by Arconada, won on penalties.

On 18 April, at 8 p.m., on the pitch at La Cartuja in Seville, Atlético Madrid and Real Sociedad will be looking to win a title they both crave. The Rojiblancos have not won a major title in five years, while the Basques have gone 38 years without being able to celebrate a championship with their fans, as they won their last Cup in the midst of the pandemic.