Lookman scores spectacular debut goal as Atletico Madrid thrash Betis

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

 Ademola Lookman marked his first appearance for Atletico Madrid in the most emphatic fashion, scoring a superb goal on debut as Diego Simeone’s side demolished Real Betis 5-0 in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals on Thursday night.

The Nigerian winger, who joined Atletico in the January transfer window, needed just 37 minutes to open his account for his new club.

Lookman latched onto a brilliant through-ball, surged into the box, and produced a precise low finish into the bottom right corner to make it 3-0.

He was far from finished. On 62 minutes, Lookman produced a clever assist, threading a pass that put Antoine Griezmann clean through on goal. Griezmann finished clinically, but the move again showcased Lookman’s vision and quick thinking in transition.

Atletico dominated from start to finish at the Benito Villamarín. David Hancko opened the scoring with a powerful header from a Koke corner in the 12th minute.

Giuliano Simeone added the second on 30 minutes with a cool low finish inside the box. Thiago Almada rounded off the rout with the fifth goal in the 83rd minute.

Lookman was substituted in the 79th minute to a warm ovation from the travelling Atletico fans, having delivered an energetic and threatening performance on the right flank.

The result sends Atletico Madrid into the Copa del Rey semi-finals in dominant style and gives Simeone’s team a major confidence boost as they chase silverware on multiple fronts this season.