Ademola Lookman enjoyed a dream debut for Atletico Madrid after scoring and providing an assist in a commanding 5 0 victory over Real Betis, a result that secured Atletico’s place in the Copa del Rey semi finals. The emphatic win at La Cartuja Stadium underlined Atletico’s attacking depth and highlighted Lookman’s immediate influence following his recent arrival from Serie A side Atalanta.
The Nigerian international, signed earlier this week, looked settled from the opening moments and played with confidence and intent in the final third. His movement stretched Betis’ defensive line, while his willingness to take on defenders added a dynamic edge to Atletico’s forward play. The performance suggested that Lookman has quickly adapted to Diego Simeone’s tactical demands, blending discipline with attacking freedom.
Atletico set the tone early and took the lead after just 12 minutes. Captain Koke delivered a pinpoint corner that was met by defender David Hancko, whose powerful header left goalkeeper Adrian with little chance. The early breakthrough allowed Atletico to dictate the tempo and force Betis onto the back foot.
Lookman had opportunities to extend the lead soon after. He narrowly missed the target from a one on one situation before firing over the crossbar with a first time effort moments later. His persistence paid off as Atletico continued to press with fluid passing and intelligent off the ball movement.
The second goal arrived on the half hour following a slick sequence down the left flank. A series of quick exchanges involving Lookman opened space for a low cross that found Giuliano Simeone, who finished decisively to double the advantage. Atletico’s third came minutes later, and this time Lookman was the scorer. Showing strength and close control, he shrugged off a defender, glided past another, and calmly placed his shot into the corner to crown an impressive first half display.
After the break, Atletico eased their intensity but remained clinical. Lookman again played a key role in the fourth goal, driving through the middle to draw defenders before laying the ball off to Antoine Griezmann, who curled a fine finish into the top corner. Substitute Thiago Almada added the fifth late on, reacting quickest after the goalkeeper parried an initial effort.
The only concern for Atletico was an injury to midfielder Pablo Barrios, who was forced off in the second half after appearing to suffer a hamstring problem. Despite that setback, the night belonged to Lookman, whose debut performance earned praise from teammates and supporters alike.
The victory sends Atletico into the semi finals alongside Barcelona, Athletic Bilbao, and Real Sociedad, with two legged ties scheduled later this month and in early March. For Lookman, the match marked an ideal start to his Atletico career and hinted at a promising partnership with a squad chasing silverware on multiple fronts.
