Ademola Lookman Makes Spectacular Start with Atletico Madrid in Copa del Rey Clash
Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman announced his arrival at Atletico Madrid in emphatic style, netting a brilliant solo goal on his debut during the Copa del Rey quarter-final match against Real Betis on Thursday, February 5, 2026. The Super Eagles star, who had only completed his transfer from Atalanta three days prior, wasted no time in showcasing his talent for Diego Simeone’s side, helping Atletico secure a commanding 3–0 lead before half-time.
Lookman’s Immediate Impact and Trust from Simeone
Despite the short timeframe since his move, Lookman was handed a starting role in the attack alongside Antoine Griezmann, a decision that highlighted Simeone’s confidence in the player’s experience and quality. The Nigerian forward justified this faith with a confident and energetic performance, pressing aggressively and making intelligent runs off the ball. His chemistry with Griezmann was evident from the opening exchanges, as he provided pace and directness in attack while also contributing defensively.
Atletico Madrid took control early in the match, with Dávid Hancko opening the scoring in the 12th minute and Giuliano Simeone adding a second in the 30th minute. With the team already dominating, Lookman continued to grow into the game, finding pockets of space behind Betis’ defence and setting the stage for his memorable moment.
A Moment of Individual Brilliance Seals the Victory
In the 37th minute, Lookman crowned his debut with a stunning solo goal that brought the home crowd to its feet. Latching onto a well-timed through ball, the Super Eagles star displayed great composure and pace as he surged forward. He skillfully beat two defenders with sharp footwork before calmly firing a low shot into the bottom-left corner of the net. This goal not only extended Atletico’s lead to 3–0 but also instantly endeared Lookman to the supporters, reflecting the confidence and quality that made him the 2024 African Player of the Year.
For Simeone, the strike served as further proof that Lookman could add an extra cutting edge to Atletico’s forward line, which has often relied heavily on Griezmann for creativity and goals. His ability to beat defenders one-on-one and finish clinically introduces a new dimension to the team’s attacking options.
Lookman’s New Chapter and Broader Implications
This dream debut is likely to raise expectations among both Atletico fans and Nigerian supporters, as Lookman transitions from his successful stint in Italy, where he helped Atalanta win the Europa League, to a new challenge in La Liga. The goal against Real Betis also strengthens his status as one of Nigeria’s most in-form attacking players, coming just weeks after his key role for the Super Eagles at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Earlier reports noted that Atalanta head coach Raffaele Palladino sent a message to Lookman following his move, acknowledging the player’s legendary status at the club due to his exploits since joining from RB Leipzig in 2022. As Lookman begins this new chapter, his immediate impact suggests he is ready to replicate his success on the Spanish stage, adding excitement to Atletico Madrid’s campaign in domestic and European competitions.
