Lookman Inspires Atlético Madrid To 4-0 Demolition Of Barcelona in Copa del Rey Semi-Final
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Atlético Madrid delivered a commanding performance to dismantle Barcelona 4-0 in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final clash, taking a giant stride toward the final.
Nigerian international Ademola Lookman once again proved decisive, registering a goal and an assist in a dominant first-half display at the Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid.
The hosts took control as early as the sixth minute when Lookman forced the opening goal. Although the ball eventually crossed the line after Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia allowed a backpass to slip under his foot, the goal was officially recorded as an own error rather than credited to the Super Eagles forward.
Atlético doubled their advantage in the 14th minute through a stunning strike from Antoine Griezmann, leaving Barcelona rattled.
Lookman then got the goal his performance deserved in the 33rd minute, calmly finishing off a clever assist from Julián Alvarez to make it 3-0.
The Nigerian forward turned provider just before halftime, setting up Álvarez to net Atlético’s fourth goal and cap off a ruthless opening 45 minutes.
Barcelona attempted to mount a response after the break and thought they had pulled one back in the 52nd minute when Pau Cubarsi found the net.
However, VAR intervened to rule the effort offside, further compounding the visitors’ frustration.
Despite dominating possession in the second half, the Catalan giants were unable to reduce the deficit, leaving them with a mountain to climb in the return leg next Wednesday in Catalonia.
Lookman’s impressive start to life in Madrid continues, with the forward now boasting two goals and one assist in just three appearances since his arrival from Atalanta.
Atlético will now shift focus back to league action in La Liga as they prepare for a trip to Rayo Vallecano on Sunday. Diego Simeone’s side will be aiming to consolidate their third-place position while carrying strong momentum from this emphatic semi-final performance.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
