Lookman Joins Finidi in Scoring but Losing Copa del Rey Final

Ademola Lookman became only the second Nigerian player to score in a Copa del Rey final and still finish on the losing side, as Atletico Madrid fell to Real Sociedad in a dramatic penalty shootout on Saturday.

Lookman struck once in Atletico’s 2-2 draw, but Los Colchoneros were beaten 4-3 on spot-kicks, ending hopes of a first Copa triumph in 13 years.

His journey echoed that of compatriot Finidi George, who scored and assisted for Real Betis in the 1997 final against Barcelona, only to see his side lose 3-2 after extra time.

Finidi had thought he had delivered Betis the trophy with a late (82nd minute) strike, but Juan Antonio Pizzi equalised from Pep Guardiola’s assist before Luís Figo sealed Barcelona’s win in the 115th minute.

Lookman’s fate was similarly cruel, as his goal was not enough to prevent Atletico’s collapse in the shootout.

Despite the disappointment, Lookman’s strike moved him joint fifth on Nigeria’s Copa del Rey scoring list, with three goals in just four appearances.

Samuel Chukwueze leads the chart with nine goals in 14 games, followed by Umar Sadiq with seven in 19 and Finidi George with five.

Atletico’s defeat capped a night of frustration, as they twice came from behind to force extra time but ultimately saw their dreams dashed from the penalty spot.