Ademola Lookman scores on Atlético debut

By our reporter

Ademola Lookman marked his debut for Atlético Madrid with a goal on Thursday. He scored the third goal in their Copa del Rey quarter-final clash against Real Betis at the Estadio La Cartuja in Seville.

Lookman completed his transfer from Atalanta on Monday and resumed training with his new teammates on Tuesday.

The Sper Eagles attacker scored in the 37th minute, after David Hancko’s opener in the 12th minute and Giuliano Simeone’s strike in the 30th minute.

Many analysts had predicted that he would not be selected for the game have just joined the team.

Atlético coach Diego Simeone had, however, hinted on Wednesday at the possibility of handing Lookman his debut in the fixture.

“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.

“We hope he can help us in the way he believes he can, and in the way we expect. And obviously, partnerships must be formed for the good of the team, because that’s what it’s about — bringing good players together.”

The move to Spain brought an end to Lookman’s long-running transfer saga with Atalanta.

During three-and-a-half seasons in Serie A, the former Leicester City winger scored 55 goals and provided 27 assists in 137 appearances for the Bergamo-based club.