Ademola Lookman opened his scoring account for the season in impressive fashion as Atlético Madrid secured a comfortable 3-1 away victory over Chidera Ejuke’s Sevilla in La Liga.
Sports247 reports that Lookman delivered a timely response to the recent tactical concerns surrounding his role at Atlético, scoring the second goal of the contest in the 26th minute to help Diego Simeone’s side establish control at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán.
The Nigerian forward featured for 66 minutes and made a notable attacking contribution, registering one goal and two successful dribbles as Atlético produced an efficient performance on the road.
Lookman’s goal came after a well-executed move involving Pablo Barrios, whose assist presented the Nigerian with the opportunity to finish and double Atlético’s advantage.
The strike marked Lookman’s first league goal of the season and could prove significant for a player who has been adjusting to Simeone’s tactical demands since arriving at the Madrid club.
Simeone had previously addressed Lookman’s deployment, apologising to the Nigerian for being asked to operate away from his preferred attacking position.
The Atlético boss explained that the tactical adjustment had been necessitated by circumstances within the squad, particularly the injury to Alexander Sørloth and Julián Álvarez’s gradual return to full fitness.
Simeone also praised Lookman’s commitment and work rate despite the positional demands placed on him.
The Argentine coach acknowledged that the change had limited some of the qualities that have made Lookman such an influential attacking player — his ability to dribble, score and take defenders on.
The manager subsequently assured the Nigerian that he would return to a more natural attacking role in future matches.
Against Sevilla, Lookman provided evidence of what Atlético can gain when he is given greater freedom in advanced areas.
His goal, combined with his successful dribbles, offered glimpses of the directness and attacking confidence that have become synonymous with his game.
The victory gives Atlético valuable momentum while Lookman’s contribution provides an encouraging sign for the Nigerian international as the season progresses.
Meanwhile, Ejuke featured for Sevilla as the hosts were unable to prevent Atlético from leaving with all three points, despite their efforts to fight back after falling behind.
