By Ghazali Ibrahim
Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman delivered a decisive performance as Atlético Madrid edged Barcelona to secure a place in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals.
Despite losing 2-1 to Barcelona in the second leg on Tuesday night, Atletico progressed 3-2 on aggregate, thanks to Lookman’s crucial first-half goal which ultimately settled the tie.
Barcelona had mounted an early comeback at the Metropolitano, with quick goals from Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres wiping out Atletico’s 2-0 first-leg advantage within 24 minutes.
However, Lookman restored Atletico’s lead in the 31st minute, calmly finishing a low cross from Marcos Llorente to swing momentum back in favour of the hosts.
The Spanish giants pushed hard for a winner in the second half, dominating possession and creating chances, but were dealt a major blow when Eric Garcia was sent off late in the game after a VAR review.
Barcelona nearly forced extra time in stoppage time, but Ronald Araújo’s late header missed the target, allowing Diego Simeone’s side to hold on and seal qualification.
The result marks Atletico’s first appearance in the Champions League semi-finals in nearly a decade, underlining their resilience despite defeat on the night.
Lookman’s standout display continues his impressive start at the Spanish club since his move earlier this year, with the Super Eagles star increasingly proving decisive in big European fixtures.
