It took less than 40 minutes for Ademola Lookman to announce himself to the Spanish capital. Just days after completing his €35 million move from Atalanta, the Super Eagles winger delivered a masterclass performance on his debut, leading Atlético Madrid to a crushing 5-0 victory over Real Betis in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals on Thursday night.
The Wanda Metropolitano crowd, initially curious about their new signing, was left chanting his name as Lookman bagged a goal and an assist to help send Diego Simeone’s side into the semi-finals.
Instant Impact
Named in the starting lineup alongside Antoine Griezmann, Lookman wasted no time settling in. After David Hancko opened the scoring in the 12th minute, Lookman began to torment the Betis defense with his pace.
The magic moment came in the 37th minute. Linking up with Pablo Barrios on a counter-attack, Lookman received the ball, cut inside two Betis defenders with his trademark agility, and fired a low shot into the bottom-left corner to make it 3-0. It was the kind of clinical finishing that Atlético has been desperate for all season.
But he wasn’t done. In the second half, Lookman turned provider, driving into the box before teeing up Antoine Griezmann, who rifled the ball into the roof of the net for Atlético’s fourth goal.
Simeone’s Reaction
Speaking to the press after the match, manager Diego Simeone was full of praise for the Nigerian star, noting how quickly he has adapted to the team’s rigorous style.
“He joined the group very quickly, and you could immediately notice his physical strength, his speed, and his power in the final third,” Simeone said. “We hope he can help us in the way he believes he can. Today, he showed he is ready.”
What’s Next?
The victory seals Atlético’s spot in the final four of the Copa del Rey, with the draw set for later today (Friday). For Lookman, the performance silences any doubters regarding his mid-season switch from Serie A.
With a debut goal, an assist, and a standing ovation from the home fans, Ademola Lookman has firmly arrived in Spain.
