Lookman arrived at Atletico in the winter, but it took him only a few months to leave his mark on the biggest nights. In the 31st minute, the Nigeria international timed his run perfectly and finished calmly from a Marcos Llorente delivery, reigniting hope inside the stadium after Barcelona had spent much of the early stages squeezing the life out of the home side.
Before that, the Catalan club had come flying out of the blocks. Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres struck in the 4th and 25th minutes, forcing Atletico into chase mode almost immediately and draining the energy from the crowd.
Even so, Lookman’s goal was another reminder of his growing importance in his new colours. After six Champions League appearances for Atletico, he now has two goals and two assists, numbers that reflect an influence becoming harder to ignore.
Across all competitions this season, the Nigerian star has been directly involved in 15 goals in 36 appearances for Atalanta and Atletico combined, with nine goals and six assists.
It was not just about the goal, either. Lookman delivered a performance full of intensity and commitment, stretching Barcelona time and again down the right with his pace and direct running, while also tracking back willingly to help contain much of Yamal’s threat.
