Atletico 4-0 Barcelona as Ademola Lookman scores and assists in a dominant Copa del Rey semifinal performance in Madrid

Atlético Madrid produced a commanding performance to defeat Barcelona 4-0 at the Metropolitano Stadium on Thursday, with Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman playing a decisive role as Diego Simeone’s side took firm control of their Copa del Rey semifinal tie.

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The rout began inside the opening minute when Barcelona defender Eric Garcia inadvertently diverted the ball into his own net, handing Atlético an early advantage and setting the tone for a relentless display.

Atlético doubled the lead in the 14th minute after Antoine Griezmann finished calmly from close range following a precise attacking move that exposed Barcelona’s defence.

The third goal arrived in the 33rd minute, with Lookman continuing his impressive start in Madrid. After Giuliano Simeone combined with Julian Alvarez, the Argentine forward teed up Lookman, who finished confidently to score his second goal in as many matches.

Lookman’s influence did not end there. Deep into first-half stoppage time, the 28-year-old provided a neat assist for Alvarez, whose accurate strike from the edge of the box extended the lead to 4-0 and capped a devastating opening half.

The Atletico 4-0 Barcelona result reflected the hosts’ dominance across the pitch. Barcelona struggled to create clear chances, with Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo testing goalkeeper Juan Musso but failing to convert. Set pieces and corners were dealt with efficiently by a disciplined Atlético defence.

Atlético maintained their intensity after the break, with Alvarez and Lookman continuing to trouble the visitors and preventing any sustained response.

Lookman’s performance underlined his growing impact since arriving, with the Nigerian now directly involved in four goals in three appearances for Atlético, including a goal and assist in his Copa del Rey debut against Real Betis.

The forward has carried strong momentum from his standout displays at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations into Spanish football.

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The emphatic victory leaves Barcelona facing a daunting task in the return leg, while Atlético Madrid move a significant step closer to the Copa del Rey final.