If there were any doubts about how Ademola Lookman would adapt to the intensity of “Cholismo,” they were incinerated in 79 minutes of pure footballing brilliance at La Cartuja.
In a high-stakes Copa del Rey quarterfinal on Thursday night, the Super Eagles talisman enjoyed a dream debut, recording a goal and an assist as Atlético Madrid dismantled Real Betis 5-0. For Lookman, the night was doubly historic: his 37th-minute strike marked the 100th professional goal of a career that has now reached a fever pitch in La Liga.
A Debut for the Record Books
From the opening whistle, Diego Simeone’s side looked transformed. While David Hancko (12’) and Giuliano Simeone (30’) gave Atleti an early cushion, it was the Nigerian international who stole the spotlight.
The Milestone Moment: In the 37th minute, Lookman showcased the electric pace and composure that made him a legend at Atalanta, latched onto a defense-splitting through ball, and slotted home with clinical precision.
The Stats of a Superstar: Lookman’s influence wasn’t just on the scoreboard; his underlying numbers suggest a player perfectly in sync with Simeone’s system:
- Minutes Played: 79
- Goals/Assists: 1 / 1
- Total Touches: 64
- Duels Won: 15
- Pass Accuracy: 86%
- Tackles Won: 100% (4/4)
“Naija No Dey Carry Last”
The reaction back home and across social media was instantaneous. Nigerian fans and outlets like Brila FM and TheCable erupted in celebration, noting that the “Lookman Era” in Madrid has officially begun.
“Ademola Lookman marked his Atlético Madrid debut in spectacular fashion… the Super Eagles star is ready to soar,” noted Culture Custodian, capturing the national pride following the 28-year-old’s move from Italy.
Even Diego Simeone, usually reserved with individual praise, couldn’t hide his delight. The Atleti boss called the performance the “best first half of the season,” highlighting Lookman’s dynamism and defensive work rate, the latter being the “golden ticket” into Simeone’s heart.
The Road to the Final
With Real Betis shell-shocked and eliminated, Atlético Madrid marches into the semifinals. The draw looms large, with potential heavyweights like Barcelona, Athletic Bilbao, or Real Sociedad standing between Lookman and his first Spanish silverware.
If this debut is any indication, the man who scored a hat trick in a Europa League final is just getting started in his new red-and-white colors.
