Lookman Masterclass Sinks Barcelona in Copa Clash

By Rasheed Adewuyi, New York

• Lookman Roars at the Metropolitano: Super Eagles Star Fires Atlético to 4–0 Barça Rout

Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has credited the electrifying atmosphere at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano for inspiring Atlético Madrid’s emphatic 4–0 victory over FC Barcelona in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final clash.

Lookman delivered a standout performance, scoring once and providing an assist as Diego Simeone’s side overwhelmed Barcelona with relentless intensity and tactical discipline.

Speaking on Futbol Picante on FOX Sports, the former Atalanta BC winger said the home supporters played a decisive role in the dominant win.

“We played a great game today,” Lookman said. “We did not only play well. We didn’t just play well up front, our defense did a great job too. Keeping a clean sheet is fantastic. Kudos to everyone!”

Atlético’s high-pressing approach suffocated Barcelona’s build-up play from the opening whistle, forcing errors and creating waves of attacking opportunities. Lookman was central to that strategy, constantly stretching the defense and exploiting spaces in transition.

Although he acknowledged Barcelona’s pedigree, the Nigerian international insisted Atlético’s execution made the difference.

“We were very deadly in all our attacks today,” he added. “We took our chances and we kept on playing. When you create chances, you’ll always score goals,  that’s always the positive in football.”

Lookman also reflected on how seamlessly he has integrated into Simeone’s demanding system since arriving from Italy. He previously registered a goal and an assist on his debut against Real Betis, underlining his immediate impact.

“It’s quite easy to adapt quickly to the system because the squad is strong,” he said. “There’s real quality in the group, and everyone is eager to come together and build good chemistry.”

Atlético now carry a commanding advantage into the second leg, scheduled for March 3, 2026, at Spotify Camp Nou.

If Thursday night was any indication, Lookman is not just adapting in Madrid — he is thriving on the biggest stage.