Real Betis Social Media Handler Makes Candid Admission About Lookman's Impact
Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman has made an immediate and spectacular impact in Spanish football, earning praise from an unlikely source following his debut performance for Atletico Madrid. The Nigerian international, who recently completed his move from Italian side Atalanta, announced his arrival in La Liga with a stunning goal and an assist during Atletico's emphatic 5-0 victory over Real Betis in the Copa del Rey quarterfinal on Thursday, February 5.
Lookman's Memorable Debut Performance
Diego Simeone handed Lookman a starting role alongside Antoine Griezmann just three days after the Nigerian completed his transfer, demonstrating significant trust in the 2024 CAF Player of the Year. The decision proved inspired as Lookman delivered a performance that captured the attention of Spanish football enthusiasts and opponents alike.
In the 37th minute of the match at Estadio de la Cartuja in Sevilla, Lookman rewarded his manager's faith with a moment of individual brilliance. The Nigerian international weaved past two Real Betis defenders with skillful dribbling before calmly slotting the ball past goalkeeper Adrian to give Atletico Madrid a commanding 3-0 lead. This goal came after earlier strikes from David Hancko in the 12th minute and Giuliano Simeone in the 30th minute.
Lookman continued to influence the game in the second half, providing an assist for Antoine Griezmann in the 62nd minute. The French forward beat Adrian to extend Atletico's lead to 4-0, with Thiago Almada completing the rout in the 83rd minute to seal a convincing 5-0 victory for Los Rojiblancos.
Real Betis Admin's Unexpected Praise
In a surprising display of sportsmanship, Real Betis' social media administrator made an honest admission about Lookman's performance despite his team suffering a heavy defeat. The official Real Betis English-language account on X posted a viral tweet acknowledging the quality of Lookman's debut goal, writing: "Hard to say, but that was a good goal from Lookman ? 37' | #RealBetisAtleti | 0-3."
This candid praise from an opponent's official channel highlights the exceptional nature of Lookman's debut performance and demonstrates the respect he has already earned in Spanish football circles. The admission is particularly noteworthy given the competitive nature of the Copa del Rey quarterfinal and the comprehensive nature of Atletico Madrid's victory.
Nigerian Football Fans React to Betis Praise
The social media interaction sparked reactions from Nigerian football supporters, who urged Real Betis to consider signing Super Eagles players to benefit from similar talent and fan support. Several fans took to social media platforms to express their views, with one user suggesting: "We go find one Naija boy give una, no worry," while another commented: "Don't famz us please just sign a Naija player and leave the rest for us."
Additional reactions highlighted the growing influence of Nigerian players in Spanish football, with one fan noting: "Help us save Tolu Arokodare from relegation and you will see what we Nigerians will do for you, remember your arc rivals Sevilla have two Nigerians and look at how they are progressing."
Atalanta President Reflects on Lookman's Departure
Atalanta President Luca Percassi has spoken about Lookman's transfer to Atletico Madrid, having initially expressed reluctance to sanction the move earlier in January. Percassi acknowledged that while the Italian club had signed Giacomo Raspadori as reinforcement, this did not diminish the significance of losing an important player like Lookman. The Nigerian forward spent three and a half successful years with Atalanta before making his move to Spanish football.
Atletico Madrid's comprehensive victory propels them closer to their first Copa del Rey final since winning the competition in the 2012/2013 season. Lookman's immediate impact suggests he will play a crucial role in Los Rojiblancos' pursuit of domestic and European honors, while his performance has already earned him respect from opponents and admiration from football enthusiasts across Spain and Nigeria.
