Ademola Lookman made a strong start for Atlético Madrid by scoring on his debut Thursday. He netted the team’s third goal in their Copa del Rey quarter-final against Real Betis at Estadio La Cartuja in Seville.
Lookman completed his move from Atalanta on Monday, started training with his new teammates the next day, and quickly scored his first goal for the club.
The Nigerian forward scored Atlético’s third goal in the 37th minute with his signature style. David Hancko opened the scoring in the 12th minute, and Giuliano Simeone added another in the 30th.
Atlético coach Diego Simeone suggested on Wednesday that Lookman might make his debut in this match.
The 28-year-old joined Atlético with two other winter signings: Rodri Mendoza from Elche and Obed Vargas from Seattle Sounders. Simeone praised the 2024 African Player of the Year in his pre-match press conference.
“Three important players have arrived. We’re going to need them, and we’ll work together to finish the season in the best way possible,” Simeone said, via Spidy Atlético.
“He (Lookman) joined the group very quickly, and you could immediately notice his physical strength, his speed, his ability to change the play, and his power in the final third.