Ademola Lookman Shines On Atlético Debut With Goal And Assist in Copa del Rey Rout
2 min read
By Sedara Philip
Ademola Lookman announced his arrival in Spanish football in emphatic fashion, delivering a goal and an assist on his debut as Atlético Madrid cruised to a 5–0 victory over Real Betis in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals on Thursday night.
The Nigerian forward, who completed a January move from Atalanta, was handed an immediate start by Diego Simeone for the trip to the Estadio Benito Villamarín. Lookman wasted no time justifying the manager’s faith, tormenting the Betis backline with his pace, direct running, and sharp decision-making.
Atlético took the lead after 12 minutes when Dávid Hancko rose highest to head home from a set piece. Giuliano Simeone doubled the advantage in the 30th minute, putting Los Colchoneros firmly in control.
Seven minutes later, Atlético struck decisively on the counter-attack. Pablo Barrios released Lookman, who glided past two defenders before calmly slotting the ball home to make it 3–0 heading into the break.
The visitors maintained their authority after halftime, continuing to stretch Betis with swift transitions.
In the 62nd minute, Lookman turned provider, picking out Antoine Griezmann with a perfectly weighted pass, allowing the Frenchman to finish clinically for Atlético’s fourth.
Lookman was later withdrawn to a standing ovation, making way for Obed Vargas, before Thiago Almada completed the rout with a fifth goal late on.
The comprehensive win sends Atlético Madrid into the Copa del Rey semi-finals, where they will face Athletic Club.
For Lookman, it marks an encouraging start to life in Spain and puts him within touching distance of his first trophy with his new club.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
