Lookman Joins Atlético Madrid History Books With Debut Heroics

Ademola Lookman made a dream debut for Atlético Madrid on Thursday night, etching his name into the club’s modern history during their emphatic Copa del Rey quarter-final victory over Real Betis.

Starting for Diego Simeone’s side just days after completing his move from Atalanta, the Nigerian winger produced a dazzling performance in Seville.

He struck Atlético’s third goal of the evening before turning provider for Antoine Griezmann, who added the fourth in a 5-0 rout that sealed the Rojiblancos’ place in the semi-finals.

In doing so, Lookman became the first Atlético player since at least the 2013/14 season to mark his debut as a starter against a La Liga opponent with both a goal and an assist in any competition, according to Opta.

The milestone underscores the impact of the 28-year-old’s arrival, with Simeone’s men now eyeing silverware on multiple fronts.

For Lookman, it was the perfect introduction to Spanish football, instantly winning over Atlético fans and reviving a benchmark untouched for more than a decade.