Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has praised Ademola Lookman for his performance after his side drew 1-1 with Arsenal in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final in Madrid.
The Spanish club were held at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Wednesday night, with both goals coming from penalties in a tightly contested encounter. Arsenal took the lead shortly before half-time through Viktor Gyökeres, who converted from the spot. Atlético responded in the second half when Julian Alvarez equalised, also from a penalty after a handball decision confirmed by VAR.
Despite not registering a goal or assist, Lookman’s display drew particular attention from his manager. The Nigerian forward played the full 90 minutes and was heavily involved throughout the match, contributing both in attack and defence.
Lookman completed 95 per cent of his passes in the opposition half and created one key opportunity. He attempted four shots during the game, with two on target, but was unable to convert. He came close on multiple occasions, missing two significant chances that could have given Atlético the advantage.
Beyond his attacking efforts, the 28-year-old also demonstrated a strong defensive work rate. He made five defensive contributions, including two tackles, two interceptions, and a blocked shot. He also registered two recoveries and won seven out of ten duels, helping his side limit Arsenal’s attacking threat.
Simeone highlighted this aspect of Lookman’s performance in his post-match comments, indicating that the player’s contribution without the ball was particularly valuable.
“I loved Lookman’s game; we’re getting an important player to understand that his defensive work helps us,” Simeone said at the post-match press conference as per Marca.
The result leaves the tie finely balanced ahead of the second leg, with both teams still in contention for a place in the final. Arsenal, however, remain a difficult opponent, something Simeone acknowledged after the match.
Lookman’s performance comes despite a continued run without a goal or assist against the English side. The forward has now faced Arsenal six times without directly contributing to a goal. Nevertheless, his overall display suggests he remains an important part of Atlético’s system.
The draw reflects the closely fought nature of the contest, with neither side able to establish clear dominance. Atlético will look to build on their performance in the return leg, while Arsenal will aim to capitalise on their away result.
With the tie still open, both teams face a decisive encounter in the second leg as they seek a place in the Champions League final.
