Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman continued his impressive start to life in Spain by providing an assist for Atletico Madrid in their commanding 4-1 victory over Club Brugge on Tuesday night. The win in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League knockout play-offs secured a 7-4 aggregate progression for Diego Simeone's men.
With the tie delicately poised at 2-1 on the night, Lookman was introduced as a substitute in the 70th minute, replacing Alex Baena. The Nigerian international needed just six minutes to make a decisive impact at the Wanda Metropolitano. Combining neatly with Antoine Griezmann, Lookman then set up Alexander Sørloth, who finished calmly into the right side of the net to extend Atletico's lead to 3-1. Sørloth would later complete his hat-trick from a corner, capping a dominant display from the Spanish side.
Lookman's contribution was another highlight in his bright start following his January move from Atalanta. The 28-year-old, who scored in the first leg in Belgium, has now recorded seven goal contributions in just seven appearances across all competitions. According to PUNCH Sports Extra, this performance equals the best start by any Atletico Madrid player since the 2013/2014 season.
The night was less fortunate for fellow Nigerian Raphael Onyedika, who missed the decisive encounter through suspension after picking up a booking in the first leg. His absence was felt by Club Brugge, as Atletico's experience and quality shone through. The hosts had taken control in the first half through Sørloth, only for Brugge to level before Johnny Cardoso's powerful strike restored the lead after the break. With the victory, Atletico extends their unbeaten run in regulation time in Champions League knockout matches to 20 games. They will now face either Liverpool or Tottenham Hotspur in the Round of 16, awaiting Friday's draw.
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