Ademola Lookman produced a dream start to life at Atlético Madrid, scoring on his competitive debut and marking the strike as the 100th goal of his senior career in a standout performance that thrilled supporters and provided a major boost for his new club. The Nigeria international’s goal came in Atlético’s Copa del Rey quarter-final win over Real Betis, a match that combined strong team play with Lookman’s well-timed finishing to send Diego Simeone’s side into the semifinals.
Stunning strike seals confident victory
In a commanding display at Estadio Benito Villamarín, Atlético Madrid controlled large portions of the match and built an early lead through goals from David Hancko and Giuliano Simeone. Lookman’s contribution came just before halftime: after a well-worked team move, he dribbled past two defenders and calmly fired into the bottom corner, extending Atlético’s advantage and completing a memorable personal milestone before the break.
The forward’s influence did not end there. Shortly after the hour mark, Lookman continued his impact on the game by providing an assist for Antoine Griezmann, who rifled home first time to make it 4–0 before Thiago Almada made it 5–0. Atlético eventually ran out comfortable winners, booking their place in the Copa del Rey semifinals and ensuring a perfect start to Lookman’s tenure in the red and white.
Quick rise to 100 goals
Reaching 100 senior career goals is a milestone few players achieve, and for Lookman it underscored years of consistent development across several leagues. Before joining Atlético, the winger enjoyed a productive spell with Atalanta in Serie A, where he scored 41 goals in 105 appearances, helping the club to success including a UEFA Europa League title in 2024, where he famously scored a hat-trick in the final.
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Across his senior career, Lookman progressed from Charlton Athletic to spells at Everton, RB Leipzig, Fulham and Leicester City, before flourishing in Italy with Atalanta. His gaze now turns to LaLiga and European competition as he begins a new chapter under Atlético’s experienced coaching setup.
The transfer that set the stage
Lookman’s move to Atlético was confirmed on 1 February 2026, with the Spanish club reaching an agreement with Atalanta and signing the 28-year-old Nigerian on a long-term deal. The transfer, reported to be in the region of €34–35 million, reflects Atlético’s ambition to bolster their attacking options for the second half of a demanding season that includes LaLiga, Copa del Rey and European competition.
Diego Simeone’s side have been searching for added creativity and finishing options, and Lookman’s blend of pace, directness and technical skill gives them a dynamic edge in wide areas and in transition, traits that were evident from his first touch in the red and white shirt.
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Impressive show on debut
Fans and pundits alike lauded Lookman’s performance, highlighting not only the landmark nature of his goal but the quality and composure he showed on a big stage against a strong Betis outfit. Teammates praised his movement and link-up play, noting that his assist for Griezmann added another layer to his first outing.
Atlético now turn their attention to the Copa del Rey semifinals, where they will test their mettle across two legs against tough opposition. Lookman’s immediate impact gives them another attacking threat to deploy as they juggle multiple competitions during a crucial phase of the campaign.
