Atletico Madrid produced a commanding 4-0 victory over Barcelona in their Copa del Rey semi-final clash at the Metropolitano Stadium on Thursday night.
Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman played a decisive role, scoring once and registering an assist as the side coached by Diego Simeone dominated proceedings.
The hosts wasted no time taking control after Eric Garcia inadvertently put the ball into his own net inside the opening minute. Antoine Griezmann extended the advantage in the 14th minute, calmly finishing from close range following a well-weighted pass.
Before the interval, Lookman further stamped his authority on the contest by setting up Julian Alvarez, who struck from the edge of the box in stoppage time to complete the rout.
The 28-year-old carried his impressive form from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations into Spanish football and has now contributed directly to four goals in three appearances for Atlético, including his debut Copa outing against Real Betis.
Barcelona, meanwhile, struggled to find rhythm. Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo both tested goalkeeper Juan Musso, but Atlético’s defence stood firm, comfortably dealing with corners and set pieces.
Simeone’s men maintained their intensity after the break, with Alvarez and Lookman continuing to trouble the visitors. The emphatic win leaves Barcelona facing an uphill task in the return leg, while Atlético appear firmly on course for a place in the final.
