"A big heart"- What Atletico Madrid boss said about Super Eagle star Ademola Lookman after derby goal

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone has praised Super Eagles attacker Ademola Lookman following his performance against Real Madrid in the Madrid derby on Sunday, Afrik-Foot reports.

On Sunday, Lookman became the first Atletico player in years to score on his Madrid derby debut, as Los Colchoneros traveled to the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu to take on their arch-rivals.

The 28-year-old attacker scored the opening goal in the first half. However, he was substituted in the 57th minute, shortly after Los Blancos had struck twice to turn the game around and lead 2-1.

Ademola Lookman l of Atletico Madrid and Nigeria celebrates. Copyright: ImagoxJosexBretonx

The match ultimately ended 3-2 in Real Madrid’s favor, marking Atleti’s sixth loss of the La Liga campaign. The result leaves them in fourth place, 16 points adrift of leaders Barcelona.

Aside from the result, Lookman’s withdrawal after just 57 minutes raised some eyebrows. He had enjoyed a strong showing and looked positive every time he was in possession of the ball.

Nonetheless, coach Simeone had only praise for the Super Eagles star after the game. The Argentine tactician, who has been pushing Lookman to improve his defensive output, admitted that he has seen significant growth in the attacker’s game.

Atletico Madrid star Ademola Lookman — Diego Simeone and Ademola Lookman. Copyright: xMarinaxFrutos/PGSxPhotoxAgencyxIMAGO

”Ademola Lookman is improving, working very well, and giving us different things,” Simeone said.

”We’re helping him grow defensively because he has that work ethic. He’s a player with a big heart and a desire to learn. Hopefully, he keeps giving us important things like he did today.”

Next Up For Ademola Lookman: Super Eagles Duty

With the derby now done and dusted, Ademola Lookman will shift his focus to the international break with Nigeria.

Ademola Lookman in action for the Super Eagles of Nigeria. Photo by IMAGO

The 28-year-old was named in Eric Chelle’s 23-man squad for the friendlies against Iran and Jordan. He is expected to be the main man in attack, especially in the absence of the injured Victor Osimhen.

This marks the first time Lookman will represent Nigeria since his move to Atletico Madrid. He will be looking to bring the lessons learned under Simeone to the national team camp.

Lookman will be hoping to maintain his fine form for Nigeria before returning to Madrid to finish the club campaign on a high.