Ademola Lookman etched his name into the history books of Atlético Madrid on Thursday night, marking his club debut with a clinical goal and an assist to lead the Rojiblancos to a dominant 5–0 victory over Real Betis. The victory at the Estadio La Cartuja secures Atlético’s place in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey, continuing their quest for silverware under manager Diego Simeone.
The 2024 African Footballer of the Year, who completed a high-profile €40 million move from Atalanta just days ago, became the first Nigerian player in history to score for the Atlético Madrid first team. Lookman’s inclusion in the starting lineup was a show of faith from Simeone, who had personally intervened to secure the winger's signature ahead of competition from Turkish side Fenerbahçe.
Atlético’s offensive surge began early, with defender David Hancko heading home a Koke corner in the 12th minute. After the visitors doubled their lead through Giuliano Simeone on the half-hour mark, Lookman took centre stage in the 37th minute. Receiving a pass following a swift counter-attack, the 28-year-old showcased the dribbling prowess that defined his time in Serie A, weaving past two defenders before slotting a low strike into the bottom corner.
The Nigerian international continued to haunt the Betis defence in the second half. In the 62nd minute, Lookman’s explosive pace allowed him to draw the opposing centre-backs out of position before he unselfishly teed up Antoine Griezmann, who rifled a shot into the roof of the net for the fourth goal. Substitute Thiago Almada added a fifth late in the game to complete the demolition of Manuel Pellegrini's side.
Manager Diego Simeone expressed high praise for his new signing’s immediate integration into the squad. Speaking to the media after the match, Simeone noted that Lookman has "different qualities" than the rest of the roster. The Argentine strategist highlighted the forward's physical strength and power in the final third, stating that the player did not need a traditional adaptation period because of his experience and maturity.
The transfer, which includes a fixed fee of €35 million plus €5 million in add-ons, makes Lookman the second-most expensive Nigerian footballer in history. His contract at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano runs until June 2030, signalling the club's long-term commitment to the forward. According to Opta data, Lookman is the first Atlético player to debut as a starter against a La Liga opponent with both a goal and an assist in over a decade.
The two teams are scheduled to meet again this Sunday in La Liga. Atlético currently sits third in the league standings, ten points behind leaders Barcelona.