Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has singled out Ademola Lookman for praise following the Nigerian star’s display against Arsenal on Wednesday night, Soccernet.ng reports.
Atlético forced the Premier League side to a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semifinal clash at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano in Madrid.
Viktor Gyökeres handed Arsenal the lead from the penalty spot just before halftime but Julian Alvarez equalised for the hosts also via a penalty from a handball caught by VAR.
While Lookman found a goal or assist hard to come by, the Super Eagles forward was still one of the top performing Atletico Madrid stars on the pitch.
WhoScored gave him a 7.0 rating (same as Sofascore) for his display, the third best of all Atletico players.
The former Atalanta attacker played the entire 90 minutes and completed an impressive 95 per cent of his passes in the opposition half, making one key pass. Lookman fired a total of four shots, with two on target and he was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet after missing two big chances.
Interestingly, in addition to his offensive numbers, Lookman was also alert to his defensive duties. The Nigeria international made five defensive contributions, winning two tackles, making two interceptions and blocking an Arsenal shot.
The 28-year-old also made two recoveries and won seven of ten duels to help the hosts keep Arsenal away from their danger areas.
What Simeone loves about Lookman vs Arsenal
Simeone was pleased with Lookman’s overall display and the Argentine manager was particularly impressed by the Nigerian’s contribution in the defensive third.
“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.
Lookman’s drought against Arsenal continues, though, as he is yet to register a goal or an assist against the Gunners in six meetings. However, Simeone was quick to address the quality the English side parades which makes them a tough opponent to beat.
“You saw the five of their players who came on… they’re very good and have more than enough talent to compete. They’ve won 10 Champions League matches, drawn three, and haven’t lost. We’re playing against a fantastic team.”
There is still all to play for in the return leg at the Emirates Stadium next Tuesday where Arsenal will bank on home advantage to edge past Atletico Madrid and reach their second-ever Champions League final.
Atlético, though, will hope Lookman and his teammates come to the party and seal their first final appearance in ten years.