AFCON 2025
Atlético Madrid face Real Sociedad tonight in the 2026 Copa del Rey final at the Estadio de La Cartuja, with Diego Simeone’s side chasing their first title of the season and a first Copa triumph since 2013.
The clash comes at a moment for Atlético, who arrive on the back of a strong European run having miraculously knocked out Barcelona from the Champions League, while Sociedad enter the final buoyed by a remarkable resurgence under new management.
Just like in other big encounters, Atletico fanbase will heavily rely on Ademola Lookman, here are three reasons why Atletico Madrid needs Lookman today.
1. Direct Threat in Transition
Atlético under Diego Simeone thrive on quick transitions, and Lookman fits that system perfectly. His pace and ability to carry the ball over distance give Atlético an edge when breaking against a Sociedad side that likes to push forward.
Recent evidence of that impact came in Europe, where Lookman scored in a high-pressure knockout game against Barcelona to help Atlético progress.
And in a final as this, Atletico will be relying on all Arsenal’s available to them, and Lookman offers quality.
2. Tactical Flexibility on the Wing
Lookman does not just possess speed, he provides tactical balance. Expected to start on the flank in a 4-4-2 system, he allows Atlético to switch between defensive compactness and attacking width seamlessly.
His ability to drift inside also creates space for overlapping full-backs and midfield runners like Marcos Llorente. Against a Sociedad side dealing with defensive absences, exploiting those spaces could be key to breaking their structure.
3. Big-Game Composure and Goal Threat
Finals are often decided by players who can handle pressure, and Lookman is arriving at this one in form and confidence. He is chasing his first major domestic trophy in Spain and has already shown he can deliver in decisive matches.
So far this season in the Copa Del Rey, he has scored 2 goals in 3 games, and his first Atletico Madrid goal came against Real Betis in the Copa Del Rey.
With attackers like Antoine Griezmann and Julián Álvarez drawing attention centrally, Lookman’s late runs and one-on-one ability could provide the cutting edge Atlético need to settle the contest.
