‘Try to hurt them’ – Ademola Lookman eyes double blow vs Real Betis in La Liga rematch

Fresh off a historic debut, Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has sent a clear warning to Real Betis as Atletico Madrid prepare to face them for the second time in just four days this Sunda​y.

The 28-year-old was the undisputed star of Thursday’s 5-0 Copa del Rey demolition of the Andalusian side, netting a goal and providing an assist to become the first Nigerian ever to play and score for the Rojiblancos.

Now, with a league clash at the Estadio Metropolitano on the horizon, Lookman is eager to replicate the ruthlessness that dismantled Manuel Pellegrini’s men at La Cartuja.

“Obviously try to do the same things because we created a lot of chances,” he said when Sporty TV asked him about what he would do differently.

“We were dangerous today (Thursday night), so I try to try to hurt them in in their moment.”

While his goal-scoring heroics captured the headlines, Lookman was equally impressed by Atletico’s tactical discipline.

The forward highlighted the team’s defensive solidity and their ability to catch Betis on the break, a hallmark of Diego Simeone’s philosophy that he has embraced with ease.

“But you know, stay strong, you know, keep on without the ball. I think it was very, very good today also, we, we won the ball back many, many moments and we broke on them. So, in the key moments, you know, yeah, stay solidified.”

Lookman’s debut wasn't just about the goals; the numbers suggest a player perfectly suited for the Spanish top flight:

• Shots: 5 (Game high)

• Touches in Opposition Box: 9

• Most Duels Won: 7

• Most Dribbles Completed: 3

• Expected Goals (xG): 1.31

While Thursday’s win secured a spot in the Copa del Rey semi-finals, Sunday’s La Liga fixture is critical for Atletico’s title ambitions.

Currently sitting in 3rd place, Simeone's side is looking to close the 10-point gap on league leaders Barcelona.

With Lookman having scored on his debut for three consecutive clubs (RB Leipzig, Atalanta, and now Atletico), Betis will be wary of a player who has proven he doesn't need adaptation time.