Antoine Griezmann has hailed Ademola Lookman after the Nigerian forward made an immediate impact on his Atlético Madrid debut in a dominant 5-0 win over Real Betis in the Copa del Rey quarter-final on Thursday night.
Ademola Lookman, who only completed his move from Atalanta earlier this week, marked his first appearance for Diego Simeone’s side with a goal and an assist, highlighting an impressive start to his new chapter in LaLiga.
The Super Eagles star was on the pitch for 79 minutes and played a key role as Atlético ran riot at home. David Hancko opened the scoring before Giuliano Simeone doubled the lead in the 30th minute.
Lookman then announced himself in style in the 37th minute, calmly finishing off a swift counter-attack to net Atlético’s third goal of the night.
The 28-year-old later turned provider, setting up Griezmann for the fourth goal as the hosts continued to pile pressure on Betis. Thiago Almada rounded off the scoring to complete a comprehensive win for the Rojiblancos.
Speaking after the match, Griezmann stressed the importance of helping new arrivals settle in and thrive at the club.
“Regarding Lookman, the idea is to enjoy the new players and let them give us nights of joy like this one,” Griezmann said after the game.
Lookman’s lively performance quickly endeared him to the Atlético faithful, with his pace, movement and composure in front of goal offering a glimpse of what he could bring to Simeone’s attacking options this season.
The emphatic result sends Atlético Madrid into the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey and boosts momentum ahead of their upcoming LaLiga fixture. Atlético and Real Betis are set to meet again on Sunday in the league, where both sides will be eager to assert their authority after Thursday’s one-sided encounter.
