Ademola Lookman has revealed that Atletico Madrid are ready to take on any opponent in the semifinal of the UEFA Champions League, as they await a possible showdown with either Arsenal or Sporting CP, Soccernet.ng reports.
Los Rojiblancos booked their spot in the last four for the first time since the 2016-17 season after edging past rivals Barcelona 3-2 on aggregate despite a 2-1 defeat on Tuesday night.
They went into the return fixture with a comfortable 2-0 lead from the first leg, but Barcelona fought back early through Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres, who scored twice in the opening 24 minutes to put them 2-0 up and level the tie.
However, Lookman stepped up when it mattered most and netted in the 31st minute to restore Atletico’s advantage, which ultimately proved decisive in sending them through to the next round.
Atletico will now face either Arsenal or Sporting CP, with the English side holding a slim lead ahead of their second-leg clash on Wednesday night.
Ademola Lookman reacts to potential Arsenal meeting in UCL semifinal
The two teams have already met earlier in the competition, with Arsenal running out 4-0 winners on match-day three of the league phase round. Lookman was not part of Atletico at the time, having only joined the club in a €35 million deal from Atalanta during the winter transfer window.
The 28-year-old has already become a key figure at the club and has 10 goal contributions across all competitions since his arrival and he believes Atletico are prepared for whoever comes next.
Speaking about the possibility of a potential rematch with Arsenal, Lookman said his side is not focused on any particular opponent.
“Another strong team, another top team”, the Nigerian forward said of the Premier League side.
“When you’re in the semi-finals of the Champions League, whoever you get will be tough. It’s a big occasion and one we’re really looking forward to.”
Lookman also made history on the night by becoming only the fourth Nigerian to score in a Champions League quarter-final, joining Obafemi Martins, Samuel Chukwueze and Victor Osimhen in achieving the historic feat.
With the semi-finals now ahead, the former Atalanta winger has the chance to add his name to another elite list of Nigerians to have scored at that stage of the competition.
