Lookman shines as Atletico crush Betis 5-0 to reach the Copa del Rey semi-finals, with the Nigerian scoring on his debut in Seville

Lookman shines as Atletico crush Betis after Atlético Madrid sealed a commanding 5-0 victory over Real Betis in Seville on Thursday to reach the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey, with new signing Ademola Lookman scoring on his debut.

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Diego Simeone’s side joined holders Barcelona, Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad in the last four of the competition following a dominant first-half display that effectively decided the quarter-final tie.

Atlético raced into a 3-0 lead before the break through goals from David Hancko, Giuliano Simeone and Lookman, overwhelming their hosts with pace, precision and ruthless efficiency.

Lookman, the reigning African Footballer of the Year, marked his first appearance for the Rojiblancos in emphatic fashion, finishing a sweeping counter-attack by dribbling past two defenders and firing beyond goalkeeper Adrián in the 37th minute.

The 28-year-old Nigerian completed a reported 40 million euro move from Serie A side Atalanta on deadline day and required little time to underline his value to Simeone’s system.

Antoine Griezmann extended the lead shortly after the hour, with Lookman again central to the move, using his explosive speed on the break before setting up the French forward for a composed left-footed finish.

Thiago Almada added a fifth late on at La Cartuja to cap a barnstorming performance from Atlético, who sit third in La Liga and remain firmly in contention for domestic silverware.

Elsewhere, Athletic Bilbao booked their place in the semi-finals on Wednesday with a dramatic 2-1 win at Valencia, sealed by a 96th-minute winner from Iñaki Williams.

Real Sociedad also advanced after a 3-2 victory at Alavés, overturning a late deficit through goals from Gonçalo Guedes and Orri Óskarsson.

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Barcelona completed the semi-final line-up on Tuesday, edging past second-tier Albacete 2-1, with Lamine Yamal and Ronald Araújo on target.