Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman delivered a decisive performance as Atletico Madrid advanced to the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League with a 3-2 aggregate victory over FC Barcelona.
Although Barcelona secured a 2-1 win on the night at the Metropolitano Stadium, Atletico’s first-leg advantage proved decisive, as Diego Simeone’s side held firm to progress.
Barcelona started brightly, determined to overturn the deficit. Early goals from Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres brought the visitors level on aggregate, briefly shifting momentum in their favour.
However, Lookman responded with a crucial first-half goal to restore Atletico’s aggregate lead and put the hosts back in control.
“When you play against a team like Barcelona, you have to take your chances,” Lookman said after the match. “We knew it would be a battle, but the belief in this squad is incredible.”
Barcelona’s hopes of a comeback were dealt a major blow in the 79th minute when Eric Garcia was sent off, reducing the visitors to 10 men for the second time in the tie.
Unable to recover from the setback, Xavi’s side fell short, as Atletico held on until the final whistle. Celebrations followed, with Julian Alvarez and his teammates marking their return to the last four.
Atletico Madrid now joins Paris Saint-Germain, who defeated Liverpool FC in another quarter-final clash, as the first teams to secure semi-final spots.