Ademola Lookman got himself on the scoresheet again, but it wasn’t enough to stop Atletico Madrid from slipping to a 3-2 defeat against 10-man Real Madrid in Sunday’s La Liga clash at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The Nigerian forward opened the scoring to put his side in front in a tense first half, but Vinicius Junior (2) and Federico Valverde shifted the momentum back in favour of the home side.
It marked Lookman’s second La Liga goal since joining Atletico from Atalanta during the winter transfer window, after also scoring against Espanyol in February.
Lookman on target, but Real Madrid edge fierce derby
Real Madrid went into the clash looking for their first league win over Atletico since 2022 and also hoping to close the gap on Barcelona at the top of the standings.
The hosts started well with Valverde striking the frame of the goal after brilliant play in the buildup, before Atletico cleared their lines.
Marcos Llorente was denied by Andriy Lunin as the visitors went up from the resulting attack, before Valverde’s deflected effort was well saved.
Lookman then put Atletico ahead in the 33rd minute after a brilliant backheel from Giuliano Simeone as the visitors went into the break 1-0 up.
Real Madrid were awarded a penalty after Brahim Diaz was brought down in the box, with Vinicius converting to level the scoreline.
Valverde completed the comeback after a mistake at the back, firing into the net as the ball ricocheted off his foot.
Nahuel Molina pulled Atletico level minutes later with a spectacular effort from outside the area that flew in past Lunin.
Vinicius then scored again to give Real Madrid the lead from the edge of the area, before Valverde was sent off for a foul on Alex Baena.
Julian Alvarez then struck the crossbar late on, but Real Madrid held on to seal a 3-2 win and close the lead at the top to just four points.
What Next for Lookman?
Lookman will now travel to meet the Super Eagles squad for their friendly games against Iran and Jordan later this month, hoping to continue his impressive form in a green and white shirt.
The 28-year-old enjoyed a remarkable outing at the 2025 African Cup of Nations tournament where he scored three times and provided four assists as Nigeria secured bronze medal in Morocco.
