Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has made history as only the second Nigerian player to score in a Copa del Rey final.
Lookman found the net during Atletico Madrid’s clash with Real Sociedad, although the encounter ended in a 3-2 penalty shootout defeat for his side after a 2-2 draw in regulation time on Saturday. The final was held at Estadio de La Cartuja.
The Nigerian international struck with a precise left-footed effort from the edge of the box, sending the ball into the bottom corner to restore parity for Atletico Madrid.
Sociedad had taken an early lead through Ander Barrenetxea in the opening minute, but Lookman responded swiftly with the equaliser. The advantage swung again before halftime when captain Mikel Oyarzabal converted from the penalty spot.
Atletico fought back in the second half, with Julian Alvarez scoring a late goal to make it 2-2 and force penalties.
Lookman remained influential throughout the game and came close to adding another goal in the 60th minute after connecting with a pass from Marcos Llorente, but his effort sailed over the bar. He was substituted shortly after, with Nico Gonzalez introduced as Atletico pushed for a winner.
Data from Opta Jose confirmed that Lookman is now the second Nigerian to achieve this feat, following Finidi George, who scored for Real Betis against Barcelona in the 1997 final.
The goal adds to Lookman’s impressive run since joining Atletico Madrid from Atalanta during the winter transfer window. The 28-year-old has now recorded seven goals and four assists in 18 appearances across all competitions.
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