Simeone Heaps Plaudit on Ademola Lookman Over His Form Against Arsenal

Atlético Madrid’s Argentine Manager, Diego Simeone, has singled out Ademola Lookman for praise following the Nigerian forward’s brilliant performance in the 1-1 draw with Arsenal on Wednesday night in the Spanish capital city.

Although the former Atalanta star did not score in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinal clash at the Metropolitano, Lookman was a threat to the Gunners all through the 90 minutes duration of the clash.

Viktor Gyökeres fired Arsenal into 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.

Lookman was rated 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. He completed 95 per cent of his passes in the opposition half, making one key pass. 

Speaking with Spanish media after the Champions League game, Simeone was pleased with Lookman’s overall display. He 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 recorded by Marca.

The Super Eagles star however failed to score against his hometown team as his drought in six games against the Gunners continues.

The Atletico Manager was quick to defend Lookman on the drought.

“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,” Simeone was emphatic about the London Gunners who will await Atletico in the second leg on Tuesday at the Emirates Stadium

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 10 years.