Dream Start: Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman reacts to historic debut for Atletico Madrid

Super Eagles talisman Ademola Lookman has described his first outing for Atletico Madrid as a "dream start" after play​ing a starring role in the club's dominant 5-0 victory over Real Betis in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals.

The 28-year-old forward, who recently completed a big move from Atalanta, wasted no time making his mark in Spain.

Starting the game just days after his arrival, Lookman scored a sublime goal in the 37th minute and provided an assist for Antoine Griezmann, helping Diego Simeone’s side secure a spot in the semi-finals.

Speaking to Sporty TV after the final whistle, the Nigerian international couldn't hide his delight regarding his immediate impact and the reception he has received in Madrid.

“Yeah, very, very happy, it's been great, coming here and you know, being welcomed from the team, everybody, the staff, everyone's been great with me, so yeah, dream start.”

Lookman was a constant menace at the Estadio La Cartuja, appearing involved in the build-up of nearly all the attacking moves.

When asked about his involvement in the goals and his fluid movement on the pitch, he credited his success to persistence and repetition.

“Yeah, no, obviously I just tried to make them runs, tried to be dangerous in situations and in their moments, so. Yeah, just keep on repetition, repetition, keep on doing it, keep making the sets, the movements and try to be dangerous, yeah.”

The transition from Serie A to La Liga comes with high expectations, especially following his €40 million transfer.

However, Lookman insists that the joy of joining a prestigious club like Atletico Madrid outweighs any external pressure, fuelling his desire to work even harder.

“No, obviously I'm very, very happy to be here, be at such a special club, so you know that happiness, that feeling makes me want to work hard, makes me wanna perform, so keep working hard, keep staying dedicated, keep on trying to be consistent every single, every single day, that's the most important.”

With this debut, Lookman became the first Nigerian player to score for Atletico Madrid, further cementing his status as one of Africa's premier talents in 2026.