Ademola Lookman has described his first appearance for Atlético Madrid as a “dream start” after registering a goal and an assist in a commanding 5–0 victory over Real Betis in the Copa del Rey quarter-final.
The Nigerian winger, who recently completed his move to the Spanish giants, was handed a starting role and quickly made his mark as Diego Simeone’s side cruised into the semi-finals, continuing their impressive run in the competition.
Speaking after the match, Lookman expressed his delight at how smoothly he has settled into the squad since arriving in Madrid.
“I’m very, very happy. It’s been great coming here and being welcomed into the team,” he said. “Everybody’s been great with me, so it’s a dream start.”
Atlético Madrid had already seized control of the contest before Lookman found the net. David Hancko opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a header from a Koke corner, before Giuliano Simeone doubled the advantage just before the half-hour mark.
Lookman then capped his debut with a composed finish before half-time and later provided an assist for Antoine Griezmann as Atlético continued to dominate proceedings. Thiago Almada added a late fifth goal to complete the emphatic win.
Reflecting on his attacking role, Lookman explained that his focus was on being direct and consistently threatening the opposition’s defence.
“I just try to make them run and be dangerous in those situations,” he said. “It’s about repetition—making those runs and movements and always trying to create danger.”
The winger also admitted that joining a club of Atlético Madrid’s stature has motivated him rather than added pressure.
“I’m very, very happy to be at such a special club,” Lookman added. “That feeling pushes me to work hard and perform.”
Despite the convincing victory, Lookman stressed the importance of maintaining focus ahead of Atlético’s upcoming La Liga clash with Real Betis.
“We created a lot of chances today, and without the ball we were very strong,” he said. “We won the ball back many times and broke quickly, so we just have to stay solid.”
Atlético Madrid will now turn their attention to the Copa del Rey semi-finals, where they will join Barcelona, Real Sociedad, and Athletic Bilbao in the last four.
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