Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman made his La Liga debut for Atletico Madrid but could not prevent a disappointing 1–0 home loss to Real Betis at the Wanda Metropolitano on Sunday. The Nigerian international was involved throughout the match in Atletico’s attacking play, though his side ultimately came up short.
Antony’s strike midway through the first half proved decisive, with Betis holding firm to secure victory in a tight encounter. Atletico struggled to create clear scoring chances despite the presence of Lookman and his teammates.
Real Betis took the lead in the 28th minute through Antony, whose low shot beat Atletico keeper Jan Oblak at the near post. The visitors managed the game well thereafter, frustrating the home side’s attempts to break them down.
Lookman had moments to influence the contest and came close to scoring including a goal that was ruled out for offside but Atletico ultimately lacked the cutting edge. He was active across the frontline after coming into the team following his recent transfer.
Atletico pushed for an equaliser after halftime, but Betis held their shape and defended resolutely to claim a valuable away win in Spain’s top flight.
Editorial
Ademola Lookman’s La Liga debut may not have ended in victory, but featuring in Atletico Madrid’s first league match was an important milestone for the Super Eagles winger. Joining a club of Atletico’s stature in mid-season and immediately being trusted to start reflects the confidence manager Diego Simeone has in his abilities.
The narrow defeat underscores the fine margins in elite football a single moment of individual quality from Betis was enough to decide the tie. For Lookman and Atletico, the challenge now is converting promising attacking play into tangible results as they balance domestic commitments with cup and European ambitions.
For Nigerian fans, seeing a compatriot step onto the La Liga stage is a reminder of the growing impact of Nigerian players in Europe’s major leagues. Lookman’s journey from the Premier League to Serie A and now to Spain highlights his continued development and potential to be a key figure for club and country moving forward.
Did You Know?
- Ademola Lookman made his first La Liga appearance for Atletico Madrid in their 1–0 loss to Real Betis.
- Betis’ lone goal was scored by winger Antony in the 28th minute at the Wanda Metropolitano.
- Lookman had a goal ruled out for offside during the match.
- This was Atletico’s first La Liga defeat at home to Betis this season.
- Lookman joined Atletico from Atalanta during the January transfer window and scored on his Copa del Rey debut.
