Ademola Lookman made an instant impact for Atletico Madrid on Thursday, scoring and assisting in a 5-0 Copa del Rey win over Real Betis. The victory sends Atletico into the semi-finals.
The Nigerian winger, who joined from Atalanta earlier this week for €35 million, wasted no time making his mark at Estadio La Cartuja in Seville.
Atletico took the lead in the 12th minute when Koke’s corner found David Hancko, whose header beat Betis goalkeeper Adrián. Giuliano Simeone added a second in the 30th minute after a slick passing move involving Lookman.
Lookman made it 3-0 in the 37th minute, dribbling past two defenders before calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner. He became the first Nigerian to score for Atletico, according to data from MisterChip.
The debutant also set up Antoine Griezmann for Atletico’s fourth in the 62nd minute. Thiago Almada finished the scoring in the 83rd minute.
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Griezmann praised Lookman’s quick adaptation, telling Movistar Plus:
“We are a team, a dressing room, a club and a fan base that are very easy-going. Anyone who joins us is welcomed with open arms from the very first second, and we can see that with Lookman. Let’s enjoy him and hope he brings us joy.”
Lookman, 28, has now scored on his debut for three consecutive clubs and was named 2024 African Footballer of the Year.
Atletico will find out their semi-final opponent after the draw at Luis Aragonés Hall in Las Rozas. Ties are scheduled over two legs in February and March.