Lookman scores and assist as Athletico Madrid defeats Barca 4-0

Atletico Madrid stormed into control of their Copa del Rey semifinal tie with a commanding 4-0 victory over Barcelona at the Metropolitano Stadium on Thursday night

It was a dominant display from Diego Simeone’s men, with Ademola Lookman playing a decisive role by scoring once and providing an assist in a one-sided encounter.

The breakthrough arrived almost instantly. Barcelona defender Eric Garcia accidentally diverted the ball into his own net in the opening minute, handing the hosts an early advantage.

Antoine Griezmann doubled the lead in the 14th minute, calmly finishing inside the box after a precise attacking move carved open the defence.

Atletico’s third came in the 33rd minute following slick combination play. Giuliano Simeone initiated the move before Julian Alvarez set up Lookman, who made no mistake to register his second goal in as many matches.

The Nigerian forward wasn’t done. Deep into first-half stoppage time, he turned provider, laying the ball off for Alvarez to strike clinically from the edge of the area and extend the lead to 4-0 before the break.

Lookman, 28, has carried his impressive form from the Africa Cup of Nations straight into Spanish football. He has now contributed directly to four goals in just three appearances for Atletico, including a goal and assist in his Copa del Rey debut against Real Betis.

Barcelona found it difficult to respond. Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo both tested goalkeeper Juan Musso, but neither could convert. Corners and set pieces were comfortably handled by the resolute Atletico backline.

The pressure continued after halftime, with Alvarez and Lookman repeatedly troubling the visitors and keeping them pinned in their own half.

The heavy defeat leaves Barcelona facing an uphill task in the second leg, while Atletico appear firmly on course for a place in the Copa del Rey final.