In a stunning Copa del Rey semi-final first-leg performance, Atlético Madrid humbled FC Barcelona with a dominant 4-0 victory at the Cívitas Metropolitano on Thursday — and Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman was at the heart of it. (CitiNewsroom.com)
Clinical First-Half Blitz
Atletico’s offensive onslaught began early when Barcelona goalkeeper Joan García inadvertently put the home side in front with a disaster-area own goal in the 6th minute. The hosts didn’t stop there. Antoine Griezmann doubled the lead in the 14th minute, capitalising on a quick transition move that left Barcelona exposed. (CitiNewsroom.com)
Then came Lookman’s big moment. The Super Eagles forward finished calmly in the 33rd minute after a flowing Atlético attack, bringing the score to 3-0 with a clinical strike. But Lookman wasn’t done: he later set up Julián Álvarez for the fourth goal, combining speed, vision, and precise passing that showcased his growing influence in Simone’s side. (Afrik-Foot)
By halftime, the scoreboard read 4-0 — a shocking result against one of Spain’s most prestigious clubs and a huge step toward the Copa del Rey final for Atlético. (CitiNewsroom.com)
Lookman’s Key Role — Goal and Assist
Lookman didn’t just score; he created and drove the game forward:
⚽ Goal (33’): Took a fast break to finish low and precise, burying Atletico’s third.
🎯 Assist: Played the key pass that allowed Álvarez to seal the rout just before halftime. (Afrik-Foot)
The Nigerian winger’s performance underlined his importance to Diego Simeone’s tactical setup — not just as a scorer, but as a creative outlet in transition. After the match Lookman praised the team’s collective effort, saying the result was built on discipline and professionalism. (Afrik-Foot)
Barcelona’s Nightmare Night
Despite controlling possession, Barcelona struggled to convert dominance into danger. A late Pau Cubarsi effort was ruled out for offside after an extended VAR delay, and defender Eric García was shown a red card late in the game, compounding Barca’s misery. (CitiNewsroom.com)
Now facing a commanding four-goal deficit, Barcelona must overturn the tie at Camp Nou in the second leg on March 3 — a monumental challenge for the defending Copa del Rey holders. (CitiNewsroom.com)
What This Means Going Forward
• Atletico take a vital advantage in the tie—likely heading to the final.
• Lookman’s stock is rising as he continues to justify his place among Europe’s impactful wingers.
• Barcelona face serious questions about tactics, defence, and momentum heading into the second leg. (CitiNewsroom.com)
For Nigeria fans, Lookman’s performance isn’t just another goal — it’s a statement showing he can dominate on big European nights, bridging his AFCON momentum into world-class club form. (beIN SPORTS)
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