Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone could not hide his admiration for Ademola Lookman after the forward delivered a historic performance against Real Madrid in a thrilling Madrid derby, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Super Eagles attacker opened the scoring for Atlético and earned top ratings for his display despite Simeone's men stumbling to a 3-2 defeat at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Speaking after the game, the Argentine coach highlighted Lookman’s rapid development and his growing importance to the team.
“Lookman is growing, working very well, giving us different things in attack, and we need him that way,” Simeone said at the post-match press conference as per El Pais.
“We're also helping him grow defensively so he can contribute that too, which he's capable of. He's a kid with a huge heart and an incredible willingness to learn and improve. That's fantastic. Hopefully, he'll continue to give us important things.”
While Real Madrid claimed an important win the title race, Lookman was a constant threat during his time on the pitch. He played 57 minutes, completed 17 passes with around 85% accuracy, and led Atlético’s attack in the first half. Even though Atlético eventually lost 3-2, Lookman’s display stood out as one of the key positives for Simeone’s side.
Lookman makes history in Madrid derby
The biggest moment of the night came in the 33rd minute at the Santiago Bernabéu. Lookman finished a swift counter-attack after a clever back-heel assist from Giuliano Simeone, putting Atlético ahead and writing his name into the history books. With that goal, he became the first Nigerian player ever to score in a Madrid derby.
Ademola Lookman is making an impact at Atleti ⚪
— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) March 22, 2026
Stream #LaLiga on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/l1qEkILlDU
It was a landmark achievement, especially considering how quickly he has settled since his €40m move to Atlético Madrid earlier in 2026. His goal gave Atlético a 1-0 lead at halftime as he continues to stamp his influence in big matches for the club.
However, the second half told a different story. Real Madrid responded strongly, with Vinícius Júnior playing a key role as they turned the game around. Simeone made a tactical decision in the 57th minute, substituting Lookman and Antoine Griezmann to introduce fresh legs, but Atlético could not regain control as Real Madrid completed a 3-2 comeback.
Lookman’s display in this match is the latest step in his evolving story against Real Madrid. In August 2024, he showed flashes of promise in the UEFA Super Cup but did not score. By December 2024, he had made a bigger statement, scoring and winning Man of the Match in a UEFA Champions League clash for Atalanta.
The Nigeria international has now scored two goals in three games against Real Madrid.
