Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman could not hide his joy after playing a big role in Atlético Madrid’s stunning 4-0 win over Barcelona in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final, Soccernet.ng reports.
The match, played at the Metropolitano Stadium on Thursday night, saw Atlético produce one of their best performances in recent years. Lookman scored one goal and also set up another, helping his new club take full control of the tie.
It was a historic night for the Madrid side. The victory meant Atlético had beaten Barcelona by four goals for only the third time ever, and the first time in 37 years. The last time such a big win happened was back in 1989.
Special night at the Metropolitano ❤️ pic.twitter.com/rvlbOjxgQ8
— Ademola Lookman (@Alookman_) February 12, 2026
Atlético got off to a flying start when Barcelona defender Eric García accidentally put the ball into his own net just six minutes into the match. That early goal lifted the home crowd and gave Atlético confidence.
Soon after, Antoine Griezmann made it 2-0 with a fine finish. Lookman then added the third goal in the 33rd minute, expertly finding the net with a first-time finish to send fans into wild celebrations.
Before half-time, Julián Álvarez made it 4-0 after being set up by Lookman, ending a perfect first half for the hosts.
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Ademola Lookman praises teamwork and fans after special night
After the match, Lookman said he was very happy to score his first home goal for Atlético and thanked the supporters for their energy.
“I’m very, very happy. Of course, scoring is good, but I think the team played really well tonight. In the box we were very professional, and today we showed a great level of teamwork,” Lookman said to Sporty TV.
“We got that energy from our fans tonight, they were amazing, so we are glad.”
The Nigerian star explained that scoring is always on his mind as an attacker.
“You always want to score as an attacker, always looking to get into dangerous positions, so I just try to be in the right place at the right time.”
Even with the big win, Lookman warned that the job is not finished yet and said the team must stay focused for the second leg in Barcelona.
“Of course, it’s a big victory. But we have a few more games coming up before we play away, so we need to stay with the same mindset and focus on those matches, which will take us to the other semi final. We are excited about the days to come,” he said.
Lookman joined Atlético from Atalanta in the winter transfer window and has already made a strong impact, with two goals and two assists in his first three games.
The return leg will be played on March 3, as Barcelona try to fight back in the Copa del Rey, which they won last season.
