Ademola Lookman delivered a standout performance as Atletico Madrid dismantled Barcelona 4-0 in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final, putting Diego Simeone’s side in control of the tie.
The Nigeria international scored once and provided an assist in a ruthless first-half display that exposed Barcelona’s defensive gap and left the defending champions facing a daunting task in the return leg.
Early errors punish Barcelona
Barcelona’s problems began almost immediately. In the seventh minute, Eric Garcia turned the ball into his own net after an underhit pass back to goalkeeper Joan Garcia slipped beyond his control and rolled in.
Atletico capitalised on the shaky start. Seven minutes later, Nahuel Molina released Antoine Griezmann with a precise through ball. The French forward advanced with confidence before slotting home a fine finish into the bottom corner to double the advantage.
The hosts maintained their intensity, forcing Barcelona onto the back foot. After seeing one effort cleared off the line and missing another clear opportunity, Atletico extended their lead in the 33rd minute.
A slick passing move down the right ended with Julian Alvarez squaring for Lookman, who drilled a low finish into the corner to make it 3-0.
Lookman turns provider
Atletico struck again just before half-time. This time Lookman created the goal, setting up Alvarez for a powerful finish that effectively ended the contest before the break.
The second half was more measured, with Atletico focused on game management. Barcelona thought they had pulled one back early in the half, but a lengthy VAR review ruled out the effort.
Simeone withdrew Lookman, Griezmann and Alvarez shortly after the hour mark, preserving key players ahead of the second leg.
Barcelona’s night worsened in the 85th minute when Eric Garcia was sent off following a foul on Alex Baena.
Atletico now take a commanding four-goal advantage into the return fixture on March 3, with Barcelona requiring a near-perfect performance to overturn the deficit.