Ademola Lookman scores on Atlético Madrid debut, helping the team in Copa del Rey quarter-final against Real Betis at Estadio La Cartuja
New Atlético Madrid forward Ademola Lookman marked his debut for the Spanish club with a goal on Thursday, netting the third strike in the Copa del Rey quarter-final against Real Betis at Estadio La Cartuja.
Also read: Atlético Madrid sign Ademola Lookman in major deal
Lookman finalised his transfer from Atalanta on Monday, resumed training with his new teammates on Tuesday, and wasted no time in opening his account for the club.
The Nigerian forward scored Atlético’s third goal in the 37th minute, following strikes from David Hancko in the 12th minute and Giuliano Simeone in the 30th minute.
Atlético coach Diego Simeone had suggested the possibility of Lookman featuring in the fixture during a pre-match press conference.
Simeone described the 28-year-old, the 2024 African Player of the Year, as a dynamic addition to the squad.
“Three important players have arrived. We’re going to need them, and we’ll work together to finish the season in the best way possible,” Simeone said.
“He joined the group very quickly, and you could immediately notice his physical strength, his speed, his ability to change the play, and his power in the final third.”
Lookman arrived alongside winter signings Rodri Mendoza from Elche and Obed Vargas from Seattle Sounders and was officially presented to the fans on Tuesday, taking the No. 22 jersey.
He joined Atlético on a four-year deal reportedly worth €40 million (€35 million plus €5 million in add-ons).
Atlético Madrid are currently 10 points behind LaLiga leaders Barcelona and will face Club Brugge in the Champions League play-off in the coming weeks.
The Copa del Rey represents the club’s most realistic route to silverware this season.
Reflecting on his debut, Lookman wrote on X: “Proud and excited to start this new chapter. I’m happy to join Atlético de Madrid, a massive club with rich history and passion.
New city, new challenges, new energy. I’m ready to give everything on the pitch and fight for these colours every time I step out there. Let’s get to work. Aupa.”
Also read: Lookman shines again as Atalanta earn confident win
The goal capped the end of a long-running transfer saga with Atalanta, as Lookman quickly made an impact in Spanish football.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
