Proving yet again that it was a stroke of genius for Atletico Madrid to acquire him on loan from Atalanta back in February, Lookman scored the first goal in the demonstrative 2-1 win over Osasuna. The crucial win at the Estadio El Sadar, spearheaded by Lookman, qualifies his squad for the UEFA Champions League.
More impressively, Lookman dramatically ended his scoring drought. The opening goal came in the first half from the penalty spot. After a VAR review, Atletico were awarded a penalty, which the Super Eagles forward then scored with a right-footed finish in the 15th minute. Amazingly accurate, Lookman also completed 15 out of 19 of his passes. Alexander Sørloth scored the second goal in the 71st minute.
Lookman Is a Man on a Mission
Ever since Atletico Madrid shook up the football world by acquiring Lookman from Atalanta in February, Lookman has received incredible coverage and attention, including social media and the top bookies in Nigeria.
In his debut, the 28-year-old Nigerian national scored a goal and had an assist in the 5-0 annihilation against Real Betis in the Copa del Rey. So far, Lookman has scored 8 goals under the leadership of Diego Simeone. Simeone has shown nothing but extreme confidence in Lookman, shifting him across the field.
In 23 matches, Lookman has played at left wing and as a striker, proving pivotal in transition scoring. Not afraid to press, Lookman is a staunch defender providing pressure defense on ball handlers. But for Nigerian football fans, Lookman is showing what they’ve come to expect – consistent and dazzling all-around play.
Since 2022, Lookman has scored over 10 goals for Nigeria football play. Lookman’s composure under pressure and masterful dribbling make him part of a formidable quartet for the Super Eagles that also includes Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, and Samuel Chukwueze. Lookman was named the 2019 African Footballer of the Year.
Back on Track
Before the penalty goal, Lookman had been goalless in the past few matches. His last goal was in the
Champions League quarter-final second-leg 3-1 aggregate win over Barcelona, and against Real Sociedad in their Copa del Rey final loss.
The recent win puts Atletico Madrid at 66 points, and six points ahead of fifth-placed Real Betis. With two games left, Atletico Madrid trails third-placed Villarreal by three points. The two titans collide on May 24.
