Ademola Lookman Scores Brilliant Goal on His Atletico Madrid Debut, Video
by Chukwu Ikechukwu, https://www.facebook.com/legitngnews · Legit.ng News · Join- Ademola Lookman scored a brilliant solo goal on his Atletico Madrid debut in the Copa del Rey
- The Super Eagles star joined Atletico from Atalanta just two days before the quarter-final
- Lookman's goal helped Atletico take a commanding 3–0 lead against Real Betis by half-time
Ademola Lookman announced his arrival in Spanish football in spectacular fashion, scoring on debut for Atletico Madrid in their Copa del Rey quarter-final clash against Real Betis on Thursday, February 5.
The Super Eagles forward, who had only completed his transfer from Atalanta three days earlier, wasted no time making an impact for Diego Simeone's side.
Handed a starting role straight away, Lookman lined up in attack alongside Antoine Griezmann and quickly showed why Atletico moved swiftly to secure his signature.
The Super Eagles forward's goal helped put the game beyond Betis before the half-time break and underlined his readiness to adapt to Simeone’s intense tactical demands.
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Lookman earns immediate trust from Simeone
Atletico's decision to start Lookman so soon after his arrival raised eyebrows, but the Nigerian forward justified that faith with a confident and energetic display.
Despite having limited time to train with his new teammates, he looked comfortable within the system, pressing aggressively and making intelligent runs off the ball.
Lookman’s inclusion in the starting line-up has showcased Simeone’s belief in the Nigerian forward's experience and quality, especially in high-pressure situations.
The former Atalanta man showed strong chemistry with Griezmann in the opening exchanges, offering pace and directness in attack while also tracking back to support defensively.
Atletico took control of the match early, with Dávid Hancko opening the scoring in the 12th minute and Giuliano Simeone doubling the advantage in the 30th minute, according to Livescores.
With the team already in command, Lookman’s influence continued to grow as he found pockets of space behind Betis’ defence.
Brilliant Lookman solo goal seals Atletico’s dominance
Lookman crowned his debut with a moment of individual brilliance in the 37th minute.
Latching onto a well-timed through ball, the Super Eagles star showed great composure and pace as he surged forward.
He beat two defenders with sharp footwork before calmly firing a low shot into the bottom-left corner of the net, according to Daily Sports.
The goal not only extended Atletico’s lead to 3-0 but also brought the home crowd to its feet, instantly endearing Lookman to the supporters.
It was a finish that reflected both confidence and quality, traits that had made the 2024 African Player of the Year winner one of Serie A’s standout attackers during his time with Atalanta.
For Simeone, the strike was further proof that Lookman could provide an extra cutting edge in crucial matches.
His ability to beat defenders one-on-one and finish clinically adds a new dimension to Atletico’s forward line, which has often relied heavily on Griezmann for creativity and goals.
Lookman begins Atletico Madrid chapter in style
Lookman’s dream debut is likely to raise expectations among Atletico fans and Nigerian supporters alike.
After excelling in Italy, including memorable performances that helped Atalanta win the Europa League, the Nigerian forward now appears ready to replicate that success in La Liga.
The goal against Betis also strengthens Lookman's status as one of Nigeria’s most in-form attacking players, just weeks after playing a key role for the Super Eagles at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Atalanta boss sends message to Lookman
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Atalanta coach Raffaele Palladino had sent a message to Ademola Lookman after the Super Eagles star completed his move to Atletico Madrid on February 3, 2026.
Lookman joined the Italian Serie A Club in the summer of 2022 from German Bundesliga outfit RB Leipzig and wrote his name into the club’s history books as a legend because of his exploits there.
Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at Legit.ng.