Ademola Lookman shines for Atlético against Barcelona after AFCON 2025

Ademola Lookman carried his momentum from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations straight into Spanish football. The Nigerian forward, one of Diego Simeone’s marquee signings, delivered a standout performance for Atlético Madrid in their dominant win over Barcelona in the Copa del Rey semifinals.

After just three matches with Atlético, Lookman has already established himself as a key contributor.

The former Atalanta attacker quickly adapted to Simeone’s tactical demands, thriving in counterattacks and pressing aggressively without the ball.

Having scored four goals at AFCON 2025, Lookman was alert from the opening minutes. He was in position to finish the first goal, although an error from Joan García made his touch unnecessary. He later played a role in the build-up to Antoine Griezmann’s goal.

Lookman added a low finish of his own following a rapid Atlético move and then provided the assist for Julián Álvarez, who ended his scoring drought.

The 28-year-old’s adaptation has been immediate. On his debut in the Copa del Rey against Real Betis, he scored once and registered an assist.

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