Ademola Lookman Shines in Debut Season with Atlético Madrid, Scores in First Derby Against Real Madrid

Ademola Lookman is making a significant impact in his first season with Atlético Madrid, capping off a strong start with a goal in his debut match against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu on Sunday, March 22, 2026.

A Promising Start in Madrid

The Nigerian international, who joined Atlético Madrid in January 2026 from Atalanta for a reported €40 million, has quickly become a key player for Diego Simeone’s side. Since his arrival, Lookman has demonstrated both tactical versatility and a clinical edge, scoring four goals and providing three assists in 13 appearances across all competitions.

Goals in Key Debuts

Lookman’s knack for scoring in his first appearances for Atlético Madrid has been remarkable. He found the net in his debut Copa del Rey match against Betis, contributing to a 5-0 victory, and continued his scoring form by netting against Barcelona in a 4-0 win. He also scored in his first Champions League match for the club, during a 3-3 draw against Bruges.

First Derby, First Goal

The forward continued his trend of scoring in debut matches by finding the back of the net in his first Madrid derby at the Bernabéu. The goal came after a combination play between Ruggeri, and Giuliano. This performance underscores Lookman’s ability to rise to the occasion in high-stakes matches.

Looking Ahead

As Atlético Madrid continues to compete in both LaLiga and the Champions League, Lookman is expected to play a crucial role in the team’s pursuit of silverware. His early performances suggest he will be a valuable asset for Simeone’s squad as they aim to secure a Champions League qualification spot and make a deep run in European competition.