Super Eagles duo Ademola Lookman and Raphael Onyedika both found the scoresheet as Club Brugge and Atlético Madrid played a thrilling 3–3 draw in the UEFA Champions League knockout play-off first leg at the Jan Breydel Stadium in Bruges on Wednesday night.
The result leaves the tie delicately poised ahead of the second leg in Madrid, with goals coming from both Nigerian internationals and dramatic late action.
Atlético took an early lead when Julián Álvarez converted a penalty in the 8th minute. Lookman then doubled the visitors’ advantage deep in first-half added time, tapping in from close range to make it 2–0 at the break.
Club Brugge responded after the interval, with Onyedika pulling one back in the 51st minute before Nicolò Tresoldi levelled in the 60th minute. Atlético regained the lead through an own goal by Joel Ordóñez in the 79th minute, but Christos Tzolis struck late to secure a dramatic draw for Brugge.
Both Lookman and Onyedika played key roles across 90 minutes, with Onyedika not only scoring but also contributing to Brugge’s late equaliser with a crucial pass that helped set up Tzolis’ goal.
Editorial
This pulsating Champions League encounter showcased the influence of Nigerian talent on the biggest stage in European club football. Ademola Lookman continued his fine form with a composed finish to open his account for Atlético Madrid in the competition, while Raphael Onyedika demonstrated his midfield vitality by scoring and helping create the late leveller for Brugge.
The 3–3 scoreline reflects the unpredictable nature of knockout football. Atlético looked in control at half-time, but Brugge’s spirited second-half display highlighted their resilience and tactical adjustment. For both teams, moments of individual quality and defensive lapses shaped a match that will be remembered for its drama and goalmouth action.
For Nigerian fans, watching two compatriots make significant contributions in a high-stakes European tie adds to the excitement of the season. With the return leg looming in Madrid, both Lookman and Onyedika will be pivotal as their clubs aim to secure progression to the round of 16.
Did You Know?
- Ademola Lookman scored for Atlético Madrid in the 45+4th minute, his first UCL goal for the club.
- Raphael Onyedika scored in the 51st minute for Club Brugge and also assisted the late equaliser.
- Julián Álvarez opened the scoring with a penalty in the 8th minute for Atlético.
- Christos Tzolis scored the 89th-minute equaliser for Brugge after a VAR review confirmed his goal.
- The second leg of this Champions League play-off tie will be played at Atlético’s Metropolitano Stadium next week.
