Ademola Lookman endured a frustrating La Ligadebut as Atletico Madrid slipped to a 1-0 home defeat against Real Betis at the Wanda Metropolitano on Sunday.
The Nigerian forward, handed his first league start following a January move from Atalanta, saw an early goal ruled out for offside as Atletico failed to capitalise on their chances in a match settled by a moment of quality from Betis winger Antony.
Disallowed goal mars Lookman’s first start
Lookman was central to Atletico’s attacking play in the opening exchanges and appeared to have marked his full league debut with a goal midway through the first half.
The Super Eagles forward finished clinically inside the area, only for VAR to rule the effort out for offside, cutting short celebrations inside the stadium.
Despite the setback, Lookman continued to offer pace, movement and direct running, frequently occupying Betis centre-backs Natan and Diego Llorente.
Betis discipline blunts Atletico pressure
As the game progressed, Betis grew increasingly compact, limiting Lookman’s influence in advanced areas. The visitors defended in numbers and forced Atletico into wide areas, reducing the effectiveness of crosses into the box.
Goalkeeper Álvaro Vallés played a key role in preserving Betis’ lead, producing several saves in the second half as Atletico pushed for an equaliser.
Lookman, who was later substituted, was one of Simeone’s main attacking threats in the game.
The final whistle confirmed Lookman’s first league defeat in Spanish football, a sharp contrast to his positive cup showing earlier in the week.