Nigerian international Ademola Lookman announced his arrival at Atlético Madrid in spectacular fashion on Thursday night, scoring the 100th goal of his professional career on his debut as the Spanish giants demolished Real Betis 5–0 to storm into the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey.
The quarter-final clash, played in Seville, quickly turned into a statement performance from Diego Simeone’s side, but the spotlight belonged firmly to Lookman, whose composed finish in the 37th minute capped a dream first appearance in Atlético colours. The goal not only extended Atlético’s dominance on the night but also marked a personal milestone for the 28-year-old forward, who reached a century of career goals at the very moment he began a new chapter in La Liga.
Lookman, who completed his move from Italian Serie A outfit Atalanta earlier in the week, showed no signs of needing time to adapt. From the opening whistle, he injected pace, movement, and intelligence into Atlético’s attacking play, linking effectively with Antoine Griezmann and Giuliano Simeone in the final third.
Atlético had taken control early in the contest. Defender David Hancko opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a powerful header from a corner kick, setting the tone for what would become a relentless display. Giuliano Simeone doubled the advantage midway through the first half after capitalising on a defensive lapse from Betis.
Then came Lookman’s moment.
Receiving the ball during a swift attacking move, the Nigerian forward glided past defenders with quick footwork before calmly slotting the ball beyond the goalkeeper. The finish reflected both confidence and composure, traits Atlético fans will hope to see repeatedly as the season progresses.
Lookman’s impact did not end with his goal. In the second half, he turned provider, threading a precise pass into the path of Antoine Griezmann, who made no mistake in adding the fourth goal of the night in the 62nd minute. Argentine midfielder Thiago Almada completed the rout late on to seal an emphatic 5–0 victory.
The result sends Atlético Madrid into the last four of the Copa del Rey with renewed optimism as they chase their first title in the competition since the 2012–13 season. More importantly, it signals the immediate value Lookman brings to Simeone’s squad, offering pace, versatility, and clinical finishing to an already potent attack.
For Lookman, the night will be remembered as one of the most significant of his career — a debut goal, a milestone achievement, and a performance that instantly endeared him to the Atlético faithful.
The semi-final draw is expected to take place later this week, but Atlético will head into the next stage buoyed by both the result and the arrival of a forward who has wasted no time in making his presence felt on Spanish soil.
