‘It’s amazing’ – Lookman hails Atletico after Barcelona knockout win

Ademola Lookman has praised Atletico Madrid following their dramatic elimination of Barcelona to reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League.

The Nigerian forward scored the decisive goal as Atletico progressed 3-2 on aggregate, despite suffering a 2-1 defeat in the second leg at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.

Lookman delivers in decisive moment

Barcelona appeared to be in control after goals from Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres put them 2-0 up on the night, levelling the tie on aggregate.

However, Lookman turned the contest in Atletico’s favour in the 31st minute, finishing a quick counterattack initiated by Marcos Llorente.

The hosts later benefited from a key moment when Eric Garcia was sent off for Barcelona, allowing Diego Simeone’s side to manage the closing stages and secure progression.

‘Amazing’ night for Nigerian forward

Reacting after the match, Lookman highlighted the intensity and significance of the occasion while crediting his teammates for their resilience.

“It’s amazing. I have to really say amazing amazing,” he told UEFA.com.

“Nights like this, the atmosphere, the pressure, I think the occasion is great to be involved in for sure.

“Moments like today were difficult but we stuck together and we got the result that we wanted in the end.”

Lookman featured for 66 minutes before being substituted as Diego Simeone adjusted his setup to protect the aggregate lead.

Semi-final spot secured

The result sends Atletico into their first Champions League semi-final in nine years, underlining a disciplined and clinical performance across both legs.

They will now face the winner of the tie between Arsenal and Sporting CP in the next round.

For Lookman, it marks a milestone moment in his career, with the 28-year-old set to feature at the semi-final stage of Europe’s elite competition for the first time.