Super Eagles stars Ademola Lookman and Raphael Onyedika will go head to head once again in the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League knockout phase play-off after Atlético Madrid were drawn to play Club Brugge in the first leg this week.
The tie rekindles memories of their previous encounter at this stage of Europe’s premier club competition, when Onyedika’s Club Brugge eliminated Lookman’s former club Atalanta in last season’s play-off.
Lookman sealed a move to Atlético Madrid earlier this month, with the Spanish club betting on his attacking flair to help them go deep in this season’s Champions League. Meanwhile, Onyedika remains a key midfielder for Club Brugge as they prepare to defend their advantage in European football.
The first leg of the two-leg tie is set for Midweek, with Atlético aiming to establish an early edge before the return in Belgium. A place in the round of 16 and a chance to face some of Europe’s elite is at stake as both clubs field full squads looking for continental success.
Editorial
This Champions League play-off clash between Atlético Madrid and Club Brugge offers a compelling subplot for Nigerian football fans as Ademola Lookman and Raphael Onyedika meet once again on Europe’s grand stage. Last season’s meeting saw Onyedika and Brugge come out on top against Lookman’s Atalanta, and this time Lookman will be eager to turn the tables and help his new club progress.
Lookman’s switch to Atlético Madrid adds extra spice to the encounter, as he brings his pace and goal threat to a side that is pushing for honours both domestically and in Europe. Onyedika, on the other hand, has matured into a dependable midfielder for Brugge, his experience in continental competitions proving valuable. Their paths intertwined by dramatic European nights reflect the growing influence of Nigerian talent abroad.
For supporters across Nigeria and beyond, this play-off tie is more than a matchup between clubs it represents a rematch of personal pride and national spotlight. With the winner advancing to the last 16, both Lookman and Onyedika will be aiming to leave their mark on one of football’s most prestigious tournaments.
Did You Know?
- Ademola Lookman and Raphael Onyedika previously met in the Champions League play-off last season, with Club Brugge winning 5–2 on aggregate to eliminate Atalanta.
- Lookman has recently completed a transfer to Atlético Madrid from Atalanta ahead of this season’s play-off tie.
- Club Brugge finished in a position that qualified them for the Champions League knockout phase for the second season in a row.
- The winner of the Atlético Madrid vs Club Brugge tie will progress to the round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League.
- Nigerian fans have followed both players’ European careers closely, with Lookman known for his goals and assists, and Onyedika praised for his midfield presence.
