Ademola Lookman opened his UEFA Champions League account for Atlético Madrid in a pulsating 3-3 draw against Club Brugge in their playoff first leg on Wednesday night.
The Nigerian forward made his mark on Europe’s biggest club stage, scoring Atlético’s second goal just before halftime to put the Spanish side in firm control after an early breakthrough from teammate Julián Álvarez.
Atlético struck first in the eighth minute when Álvarez calmly converted from the penalty spot after a VAR review confirmed handball inside the box.
The visitors doubled their advantage in stoppage time at the end of the first half, with Lookman reacting sharply at the back post to guide the ball home from close range.
It was a historic moment for the Super Eagles star, as he celebrated his maiden Champions League goal in Atlético colours.
Despite trailing 2-0 at the break, Brugge responded strongly after halftime.
Midfielder Raphael Onyedika pulled one back in the 52nd minute, pouncing from close range after goalkeeper Jan Oblak saved an initial effort.
The Belgian side levelled matters on the hour mark through Nicolo Tresoldi, who finished at the near post following a swift attacking move.
Atlético regained the lead in the 79th minute when a dangerous low cross from Marcos Llorente resulted in an unfortunate own goal by Joel Ordonez under pressure from Alexander Sorloth.
However, the drama was far from over. In the 89th minute, Christos Tzolis fired home a low angled shot to make it 3-3.
The goal was initially ruled out for offside but was awarded after a VAR review, sparking celebrations among the home supporters.
While the result leaves the tie finely balanced ahead of the return leg in Madrid, the night will be especially memorable for Lookman.
His composed finish on the stroke of halftime not only strengthened Atlético’s position in the contest but also marked a significant personal milestone in his European career.