AFCON 2025
Ademola Lookman began the 2026/27 La Liga campaign in a new role as Atlético Madrid’s central striker, playing the full 90 minutes in their 2-0 victory over newly promoted Málaga at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Wednesday.
Diego Simeone deployed the Super Eagles forward through the middle rather than in his more familiar wide positions. Lookman registered two shots on target but was unable to find the breakthrough as Málaga frustrated Atlético for much of the contest.
The hosts eventually broke the deadlock in the 70th minute when Lee Kang-In fired a powerful strike past the Málaga goalkeeper. Álex Baena then sealed the victory five minutes from time with an excellent free-kick.
Lookman, who joined Atlético from Atalanta in January, has been handed the No. 11 shirt for his first full campaign in Spain. He made an immediate impact after arriving last season, contributing goals and assists across La Liga, the Copa del Rey and Champions League.
Simeone’s decision to use the 28-year-old as a No. 9 shows Atlético’s attacking situation, with several forwards unavailable. Lookman showed a willingness to drop deeper, link play and help Atlético progress the ball, although clear-cut opportunities were limited against a disciplined Málaga defence.
The performance marked the official beginning of Lookman’s first complete La Liga season. After a productive half-season that saw Atlético reach the Champions League semi-finals and compete on multiple fronts, the Nigerian is expected to play a key role as the Madrid club targets domestic and European success.
Atlético will next face Villarreal at home, with Lookman aiming to turn his early opportunities into goals as the new campaign gathers momentum.
