Lookman Scores as Atletico Thrash Barcelona 4-0

Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman was on target as Atlético Madrid delivered a dominant performance to defeat FC Barcelona 4-0 in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final clash on Thursday night.

The emphatic victory at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano puts Diego Simeone’s men in firm control ahead of the return leg.

Atletico Off to Flying Start

The hosts wasted no time asserting themselves. In the sixth minute, Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, handing Atletico an early 1-0 lead.

The early setback unsettled the visitors, and Atletico capitalised swiftly.

Griezmann Extends Advantage

Seven minutes later, Antoine Griezmann doubled Atletico’s lead, finishing clinically from the right side of the box. The Frenchman’s composed strike put the Rojiblancos firmly in control and left Barcelona chasing shadows.

Lookman Strikes to Deepen Barcelona’s Woes

Lookman made it 3-0 in the 32nd minute, firing home from the centre of the area after sustained pressure from the hosts. The Nigerian forward’s goal further exposed Barcelona’s defensive vulnerabilities and sparked wild celebrations among the home supporters.

For Nigerian fans watching back home, it was another proud moment as Lookman continues to shine on one of Europe’s biggest stages.

Alvarez Completes First-Half Rout

Atletico showed no signs of slowing down. Just after the restart of first-half added time, Julian Alvarez slotted home in the 46th minute to give the hosts a commanding 4-0 lead heading into the break.

The scoreline reflected Atletico’s intensity and Barcelona’s defensive disarray.

VAR Denies Barcelona Lifeline

Barcelona thought they had pulled one back in the 51st minute when Pau Cubarsi found the net. However, after a VAR review, the goal was ruled out, ensuring Atletico maintained their clean sheet.

The decision compounded the visitors’ frustrations.

Red Card Caps Miserable Night

Matters worsened for Barcelona in the 84th minute when Eric Garcia was shown a red card following another VAR check. The dismissal left manager Hansi Flick with 10 men for the closing stages.

Late efforts from Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres failed to trouble Atletico, as goalkeeper Juan Musso produced key saves to preserve the shutout.

Massive Advantage Ahead of Second Leg

The comprehensive win gives Atletico a significant cushion going into the second leg of the semi-final. For Barcelona, the task now looks daunting as they attempt to overturn a four-goal deficit to keep their Copa del Rey hopes alive.

For Lookman, however, the night belonged to him a reminder that the Nigerian talent continues to command attention at the highest level of European football.